ADELPHI UNIVERSITY 1

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

University of Aberdeen: See page 367.

Adelphi University

One South Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

Situated in a comfortable Long Island suburb within shouting distance of Manhattan,

Adelphi lets you taste urban life without being overwhelmed. Long established as

an innovator in public health and the arts, Adelphi’s strengths are professional

programs grounded in the liberal arts. Almost all undergrads are New Yorkers, two-

thirds are women, and 93 percent get some financial aid. Compare to Fairfield and

Quinnipiac.

Think of Adelphi as a Gen Y of higher education. After going through a tumultuous

time in the late 1990s, Adelphi began coming of age in 2002 thanks to new leader-

ship and a revamped mission. Enrollment has grown, and nearly 100 new faculty

have been hired in the last decade. Student financial aid has been expanded, and

Adelphi has a policy of keeping tuition lower than peer institutions. At the same

time, the school has focused on reducing class sizes and creating more hands- on

learning experiences. Students say that, as a result, there is a palpable sense of energy

among students and faculty.

Founded in 1863 as a prep school in Brooklyn, Adelphi morphed into a coeduca-

tional college in 1896 and in 1928 moved to Garden City, where it occupies 75 acres

in an attractive residential suburb that boasts a Gothic cathedral and an abundance

of stately homes. The campus is registered as an arboretum. A $34 million reno-

vation of the Harley University Center has added and enhanced dining and study

areas, high- tech event spaces, and an art gallery.

General education requirements have been revamped so that students now are

required to complete 30 credits through courses in the humanities, social sciences,

natural sciences, mathematics, computing, and logic. First- year students take part

in a writing seminar to hone their skills. Other

required courses include communications, quan-

titative reasoning, information literacy, and

global learning and civic engagement. All stu-

dents are required to complete a capstone course or project. Adelphi’s most popular

majors have a decidedly preprofessional bent: nursing, psychology, biology, and

management. Communication sciences and disorders, exercise science, and social

work are traditional strengths. The fine and performing arts are also notable, espe-

cially the theater program. New majors include nutrition and dietetics, supply chain

management, and an accelerated M.S. in nursing. Joint bachelor’s/graduate degree

programs have been established in a number of disciplines, and a B.S./M.B.A. pro-

gram in the business of science prepares students for executive careers in pharma-

ceuticals, tech, and other industries.

Adelphi has “a relaxed but still serious environment,” says a communications

major. “The students are generally working hard, but it never feels too intense.”

Forty- six percent of classes have fewer than 20 students. Despite an increase in fac-

ulty hiring, students complain that it can be hard to find open courses come regis-

tration time, and the quality of teaching can be hit or miss. Still, a criminal science

major says, “It’s easy to form relationships with the instructors and network with

them for future opportunities.” Adelphi’s Learning Resource Program, for students

Website: www .adelphi .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 5,871

Undergraduates: 4,769

Male/Female: 32/68

Financial Aid: 93%

Pell Grant: 38%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 55%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 17,301

Accepted: 73%

Enrolled: 9%

Grad in 6 Years: 68%

Returning Freshmen: 85%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (516) 877- 3050

Email Address: admissions @

adelphi .edu

Strong Programs:

Communication Sciences and

Disorders

Exercise Science

Social Work

Theater

Nursing

Psychology

Biology

Management

Business

“The students are generally

working hard, but it never

feels too intense.”

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2 ADELPHI UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

with learning disabilities, is said to be well staffed and effective, and Bridges to

Adelphi is an award- winning program offering career development and academic

support to students with autism spectrum disorder.

Adelphi has increased its emphasis on experiential learning and student

engagement in recent years. The Levermore Global Scholars program, open to

students in all majors, takes an interdisciplinary approach to addressing global

issues through special seminars, cultural excursions, activities at the UN head-

quarters in New York City, and opportunities for internships, study abroad, and

service projects. Students can choose from more than 100 study- abroad pro-

grams. The Jaggar Community Fellows Program places about 60 undergrads in

paid summer internships at local nonprofit organizations. Adelphi’s Innovation

Center research lab provides opportunities for students to collaborate with area

businesses and nonprofits on business plans and consulting projects. The Honors

College offers a rigorous liberal arts program and living/learning community for

exceptional students.

Eighty- six percent of undergraduates hail from New York, while 6 percent arrive

from foreign countries. A sophomore describes Adelphi students as “vibrant, outgo-

ing, and dedicated.” The student population reflects the university’s proximity to

the Big Apple: 9 percent are Black, 20 percent are Hispanic/Latino, 13 percent are

Asian American, and 3 percent are multiracial. Minority representation is growing

among Adelphi’s faculty as well. School- sponsored series like Diversity Dialogue and

Common Ground encourage students to share their experiences with diversity and

respond to national events, but a sophomore says, “Students tend to keep their

political opinions to themselves.” Adelphi offers merit scholarships, worth an aver-

age of $13,450 each, to qualified students, and athletic scholarships are awarded in

23 sports.

Despite several “comfortable and well- maintained” residence halls, a mere

20 percent of all undergrads live in campus housing. Gender- inclusive options are

available, as are two first- year living/learning communities. Many students reside in

university- arranged, off- campus apartments in

Garden City. Campus dining gets mixed reviews.

Mental health counseling access has been

expanded to include a Peer Education Program.

Students report feeling safe on campus, and a

sophomore says, “The school provides us with the resources we need to support one

another and not be afraid to talk about sexual assault.”

Adelphi has been bolstering on- campus social life with an increase in free

weekend and late- night programming aimed at encouraging students to stick

around on weekends, and students are active in more than 90 clubs and orga-

nizations. Greek life does play a role in the social scene, with 12 fraternities

and sororities that attract 7 percent of the men and 11 percent of the women,

respectively. Adelphi is a dry campus, and students say that the policy is strictly

enforced. In the fall, students look forward to Spirit Weekend, while spring

brings Pantherfest and the Spring Concert. One student describes Garden City

as “a very safe, low- key residential neighborhood.” About half of students get

involved in community service. A junior says, “Adelphi is very close to the city,

so many students choose to go there and adventure.” The Center for Student

Involvement offers discounted tickets to movies, Broadway shows, and profes-

sional sporting events.

Adelphi fields several competitive Division II teams (the Panthers). The soft-

ball team won a regional championship in 2022, while baseball, men’s tennis, and

men’s and women’s lacrosse have been successful in the Northeast- 10 Conference.

Among the school’s 11 club sports, ultimate Frisbee, soccer, Latin dance,

First- year students

take part in a

writing seminar to

hone their skills.

“All of our departments, as

well as our students, work

together to collaborate on

new ideas.”

In the fall, students

look forward to Spirit

Weekend, while spring

brings Pantherfest and

the Spring Concert.

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AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE 3

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and Bollywood dance are the most popular; half a dozen intramural sports are

also available.

At Adelphi, signs of renewal are everywhere, from the campus facilities to the

burgeoning enrollment. Although the university’s lingering commuter heritage can

leave some wanting for more social opportunities, most welcome the chance to play

an active role in shaping not just their education, but the community as a whole.

Says a senior, “I really feel that all of our departments, as well as our students, work

together to collaborate on new ideas, classes, events, and opportunities for the

campus community.”

Overlaps

Fordham, Hofstra,

Long Island

University, Molloy,

Pace, Fairfield,

Quinnipiac,

St. John’s University

If You Apply To ›

Adelphi: Early action, rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Application includes optional

question regarding gender identity. Please consult Adelphi’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standard-

ized test requirements.

Agnes Scott College

141 East College Avenue, Decatur, GA 30030

Combines the tree- lined seclusion of Decatur with the bustle of Atlanta. All- female

school with exceptional facilities for a college of its size, Agnes Scott offers small

classes, sisterhood, a richly diverse student body, and a more exciting location than

some of its cohorts. Big emphasis on leadership and global learning. Socioeconomic

diversity a priority.

Agnes Scott College, founded by Presbyterians in 1889, offers a small- town

campus atmosphere and provides women with an intellectually challenging

institution— absent the distractions of men. The college is known for its science

and math programs, but it also produces skilled writers and artists and continues

to be one of the South’s leading women’s schools. Faculty have become increas-

ingly focused in recent years on designing a curriculum that cultivates globally

aware women leaders. ASC’s climate as a small, single- sex institution leads to close

relationships with the faculty and very involved students— both academically and

socially. “We believe in the power of women, of deep thinking, of honor, of social

justice, of learning for the sake of learning,” asserts one senior.

The Agnes Scott campus sits on 100 acres in the historic district of Decatur,

just outside of Atlanta. The well- maintained Gothic and Victorian buildings are sur-

rounded by gardens filled with rare shrubs, bushes, and trees— all evidence of thriv-

ing alumnae support. The Bullock Science Center includes an X-ray spectrometer,

nuclear magnetic resonance imaging equipment, and a scanning tunneling micro-

scope. As part of a campuswide sustainability initiative, the college has renovated

two residence halls, Campbell and Rebekah Scott, earning them LEED Gold and

Platinum certifications, respectively.

In addition to outstanding instruction in the sciences, Agnes Scott provides

students with solid grounding in the liberal arts, leadership, global learning, and

professional success through an approach called SUMMIT. As part of SUMMIT, all

first- year students participate in a two- day leadership immersion experience follow-

ing orientation in the fall, and then in the spring semester, during a week known as

Peak Week, embark on a faculty- led, global study tour to places like Ghana, Iceland,

Website: www .agnesscott .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,005

Undergraduates: 921

Male/Female: 0/100

Financial Aid: 100%

Pell Grant: 40%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 63%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 1,879

Accepted: 67%

Enrolled: 22%

Grad in 6 Years: 78%

Returning Freshmen: 79%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (404) 471- 6285

Email Address: admission @

agnesscott .edu

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4 AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and Peru. All sophomores are required to take an interdisciplinary SCALE course

focused on leadership development, which includes spending Peak Week shadow-

ing leaders of local business and nonprofit organizations, such as AT&T, Decatur

Housing Authority, and Zoo Atlanta. Juniors and seniors select an Applied Career

Experience during Peak Week to learn about topics and skills like data analysis,

graphic design, or digital literacy. Each student also assembles her own board of

advisors with faculty and staff members, a peer advisor, and a career mentor, and

documents her progress throughout her four years with a digital portfolio. A junior

praises SUMMIT for connecting students with “a group of people totally committed

to making sure you get where you want to be.”

Academically, Agnes Scott delivers strong programs in biology, math, astrophys-

ics, neuroscience, English literature, and creative writing. The school also offers a

top- notch German program, a rarity these days in U.S. higher education. Popular

majors include public health, psychology, biology, and business management.

Aspiring engineers may complete their degrees through a 3– 2 program with Georgia

Tech, while nurses benefit from a dual- degree program with Emory.

The overall academic climate at ASC is rigorous but collaborative, and students

are focused on learning first. “We are encouraged to find our own paths instead of

competing for the same one,” says a public

health major. Adds a senior, “In every course,

there is a cross- curricular approach. You will, at

the end of your four years, be an excellent writer,

speaker, and critical thinker.” An honor system, enforced by a student judiciary,

allows for self- scheduled and unproctored exams. Seventy- five percent of classes

have fewer than 20 students, which encourages close student/faculty interactions in

the classroom. A sophomore says, “I cannot emphasize enough how invested Agnes

Scott professors are in their students.”

For those students wishing to leave Agnes Scott’s idyllic campus behind for a

time, there are study abroad options available at more than 150 universities in more

than 50 countries. The Hubert Scholars Program combines experiential learning

with humanitarian service either at home or abroad. Past Hubert scholars have men-

tored refugee girls in the local community and developed gender- equality education

programs in Bangladesh. About two- thirds of students participate in research, and

many present their results at an annual conference held in the spring.

Agnes Scott students “recognize the value of two very simple things: the value

of diversity and the value of women’s education,” says a sophomore. Sixty percent

of students are Georgia natives, 2 percent are international, and most of the rest hail

from the Southeast. Despite the school’s small size, its

student body is hugely diverse; 31 percent of ASC deni-

zens are Black, 14 percent are Hispanic/Latina, 6 percent

are Asian American, and 6 percent are multiracial. The

school has made socioeconomic diversity a priority as

well— an impressive 40 percent of current freshmen are eligible for Pell Grants.

Ample support is available for students of diverse backgrounds, and the school has

implemented initiatives like the Transgender 101 Workshop and Diversity and

Racial Justice programs to educate the campus community. A business management

major comments, “I am challenged every day to think about the world from per-

spectives that I could never think about myself.” Most Scotties are liberal- leaning,

and national issues of equal rights and immigration have attracted attention on

campus recently. Under the new Agnes Assurance Scholarship program, all admitted

undergraduates receive guaranteed, renewable merit- based scholarships of at least

$23,000 per year.

(continued)

Strong Programs:

Psychology

Sociology and Anthropology

Astrophysics

Neuroscience

English Literature

Creative Writing

Business Management

Public Health

German

Biology

Math

“We believe in the power

of women, of deep

thinking, of honor.”

Faculty have become

increasingly focused

in recent years on

designing a curriculum

that cultivates globally

aware women leaders.

“We are encouraged

to find our own paths

instead of competing

for the same one.”

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AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE 5

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Seventy- nine percent of students live in Agnes Scott’s six dorms, which are

linked by tree- lined brick walks. “The residence halls are pretty nice. They have

walk- in closets, lots of storage, and all but one of them have air- conditioning,” says

a student. Juniors and seniors can live in Avery Glen, the college- owned apartment

complex, while incoming students are assigned to one of two first- year dorms.

Students say that dining services staff is friendly and receptive to student feedback,

and while the food is usually decent, options can be limited. They report feeling safe

on campus, and one student says, “Campus security is very tight. There are always

officers around keeping watch.”

As for the ASC social scene, there are no sororities, but the college itself is a

close- knit sisterhood. During the week, socializing tends to revolve around study

groups, student club activities, and events planned by the campus programming

board (“ProBo”), but when the weekend comes, social life moves off campus. “Parties

at other colleges, nightclubs, bars, and off- campus restaurants are common places to

find Agnes Scott students,” says a senior.

Enforcement of drinking policies falls under the

honor code; students of legal age can enjoy alco-

hol in their dorms and at certain functions. Every

October, students celebrate Black Cat week, a tra-

dition since 1915 that marks the end of orienta-

tion and recognition of each new class and ends with a formal dance. Other quaint

traditions survive, too, such as the ring ceremony where sophomores receive the

black onyx class rings that make them part of the ASC “Black Ring Mafia.” Seniors

who get into grad school or find jobs ascend to the top of the college bell tower,

ringing the bell to share the good news.

Decatur (population 25,000) itself is not really a college town, but there are

some attractions for Agnes Scott students. “There are nice little venues and coffee

shops; very hip and fun,” a student says. Convenient public transportation serves

cultural landmarks and provides access to the social scene in nearby Atlanta. Many

ASC students get involved with community service both on and off campus, with

organizations like the DeKalb Rape Crisis Center, Hands Across Atlanta, and Best

Buddies. Popular road trips include Stone Mountain and Six Flags or New Orleans for

Mardi Gras.

Agnes Scott competes in the Division III USA South Athletic Conference. Scottie

tennis has been the most successful of the school’s six varsity teams, winning

multiple conference championships, and softball and soccer are also competitive.

Students stay active with a variety of recreational and intramural activities, such as

Zumba, dodgeball, and club lacrosse.

Small but mighty, ASC stands out for the little touches that make students feel

they’re part of an intimate community, starting with pine- scented brochures sent to

accepted applicants. One Scottie Sister reflects, “Agnes Scott builds women who are

fearless, who change the world, who question things and inspire others.”

The Bullock Science

Center includes an

X-ray spectrometer,

nuclear magnetic

resonance imaging

equipment, and a

scanning tunneling

microscope.

“The residence halls have

walk- in closets, lots

of storage, and all but

one of them have air-

conditioning.”

Every October,

students celebrate

Black Cat week, a

tradition since 1915

that marks the end

of orientation.

Overlaps

Georgia State,

Spelman, Kennesaw

State, University

of Georgia, Mercer,

Emory, Mount

Holyoke, Smith

If You Apply To ›

Agnes Scott: Early decision, early action I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

Accepts applications from students who were assigned female at birth as well as students who were assigned male or

female at birth but identify as female, transgender, agender, gender fluid, or nonbinary.

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6 UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

University of Alabama

Box 870132, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487

“Roll, tide, roll” still says a lot— but not everything— about Alabama, which is one of

the fastest- growing public flagships in the country. Passion for the Crimson Tide is as

strong as ever, but also look for strong honors programs, emphasis on undergraduate

research, and pockets of professional excellence. Though its football team is among

the nation’s elite, ’Bama still lacks the academic luster of rivals University of Georgia

and University of Florida.

The University of Alabama first earned its national reputation on the gridiron, but

the state’s first university (with roots all the way back to 1820) is committed to

making an academic name for itself as well. In an effort to attract the South’s best

and brightest, UA has increased its emphasis on global perspectives, computer-

based technologies, freshman learning communities, and undergraduate research

and adopted a generous policy of merit scholarships, including for out- of- state

students.

’Bama’s thousand- acre campus combines pristine brick, classical, revival- style

buildings (a few of which survived the Civil War) with modern structures. One of

the most stunning in the South, the campus boasts an expansive lawn and majes-

tic trees and wraps around a shaded quadrangle, the home of the main library and

“Denny Chimes,” a campanile carillon that rings the Westminster Chimes on the

quarter hour. Hewson Hall, a $60 million building housing business programs,

opened in 2021.

The only course Alabama requires students to take during their first year is a

two- term English composition sequence. Before graduation, students must also

complete courses in natural sciences, math, humanities, and social sciences and

either two semesters of a foreign language or one of computer science. Optional

Freshman Learning Communities allow students to take two or three academic

courses together and a one- credit seminar taught by a full professor that ties the

other courses together. All students may also enroll in the two- credit Academic

Potential Seminar, which covers skills like personal responsibility, time manage-

ment, and test preparation. Incoming freshmen who are at the low end of UA’s

admissions spectrum may participate in the Crimson Edge Program, which requires

an academic support class and includes specialized academic advising.

The university is organized into eight undergraduate colleges and schools, which

together offer more than 80 undergraduate degree programs. The Culverhouse

College of Business offers strong programs in marketing and management informa-

tion systems. The College of Communication and Information Sciences is one of

the country’s top communication schools, while respected programs in the College

of Human Environmental Sciences include food and nutrition and athletic train-

ing. Among STEM fields, metallurgical and materials engineering is noteworthy. The

School of Music is a regional standout, drawing guest artists such as Itzhak Perlman

and Wynton Marsalis, and the studio art and art history programs are well regarded.

New College allows students to work with faculty to design their own interdisciplin-

ary major. The most popular majors include business, engineering, communication

studies, journalism, and health- related programs. An operations management and

marketing double major says, “Most of the professors have real- world experience

in the subjects they teach, which helps to keep the lessons engaging, valuable, and

applicable.”

Website: www .ua .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 32,518

Undergraduates: 28,886

Male/Female: 44/56

Financial Aid: 40%

Pell Grant: 18%

Expense: Pub $ $

Student Loans: 48%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 54,072

Accepted: 80%

Enrolled: 19%

Grad in 6 Years: 73%

Returning Freshmen: 87%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (205) 348- 5666

Email Address: admissions @

ua .edu

Strong Programs:

Marketing

Management Information

Systems

Communication Studies

Journalism

Food and Nutrition

Athletic Training

Metallurgical and Materials

Engineering

Music

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UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA 7

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The Honors College serves 7,300 students and houses UA’s three university- wide

honors programs: computer- based honors, international honors, and university

honors. “Honors classes can include a Habitat for Humanity course, Theory and

Practice of Mentoring, or the one that takes the

cake: the chocolate- tasting class,” explains one

participant. Honors students also get early regis-

tration privileges and the opportunity to write a

senior thesis. The University Scholars Program provides gifted undergraduates whose

objectives include master’s or doctoral degrees an opportunity to begin graduate

work during their senior year and become eligible for graduate fellowships and

scholarships. More than 2,000 undergraduates conduct research each year, and

other offerings include the May interim term, when students spend three weeks

focusing on one course in depth. Students can choose to study abroad through more

than 40 faculty- led programs, as well as reciprocal exchanges and third- party affili-

ate options around the world.

Just 42 percent of ’Bama’s undergraduates are Alabama residents, and 1 per-

cent are international students representing nearly 60 countries. UA students are

“competitive but also very community centered,” says a psychology major. Eleven

percent of UA undergrads are Black, 2 percent are Asian American, 6 percent are

Hispanic/Latino, and 3 percent are multiracial. The biggest social and political

issues on campus include free speech and race relations, and although UA tradi-

tionally leans right, a senior notes “the influx of out- of- state students has brought

a lot more political attention and representation to our school.” ’Bama awards

nearly 275 athletic scholarships in 21 sports and has expanded the number

of merit scholarships, which average $15,700. Consistent with its efforts to attract

strong students from outside of Alabama, the school spends over $157 million

on merit aid— more than double what it allocates to need- based scholarships

and grants.

Although UA requires freshmen to reside on campus, most students live in off-

campus apartments in the Tuscaloosa area; only 28 percent remain in campus resi-

dence halls. “UA has the best dorms around!” cheers a public relations major.

They’re “like apartments, with typical units

having four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a

common area and kitchenette,” adds a junior.

The living/learning communities get high marks for their tight- knit atmosphere.

Students report that some campus dining halls are better than others, and one rec-

ommends the made- to- order fare at Bryant Dining, adding, “I would gladly eat at

Bryant for the rest of my life.” A senior says that sexual assault awareness is “not

something that’s swept under the rug.”

Much of ’Bama’s social life revolves around the Greek system and athletic events.

Twenty- nine percent of men pledge fraternities and 44 percent of women join soror-

ities, and a sophomore says, “Something is always going on in the mansions we call

Greek houses.” Partying has remained a staple of the social scene in recent years,

despite administrators’ efforts to weaken it by prohibiting fraternities and sororities

from having parties on campus, but students say alcohol policies are well enforced.

Those looking for alternatives will find everything from the annual Kentuck Art

Festival in Northport to Bible study groups among the school’s 600- plus student

clubs. A modern trolley service connects the ’Bama campus to the city’s thriving

downtown. Tuscaloosa is described as “an awesome college town,” that is “mostly

centered around the university.” Advises a junior, “If Tuscaloosa is ever not enough

for students, locations such as New Orleans, Atlanta, Nashville, and the Gulf of

Mexico are all within four hours of campus for a weekend getaway.”

“Most of the professors

have real- world experience

in the subjects they teach.”

New College allows

students to work with

faculty to design their

own interdisciplinary

major.

“Any Alabama football

game is a festival.”

A modern trolley

service connects the

’Bama campus to

the city’s thriving

downtown.

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8 ALBION COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

’Bama football— whose legendary and recently retired coach, Nick Saban,

was the highest- paid public employee in the country— is a perennial Division I

power house, having won six national championship titles since 2009. The annual

Auburn– Alabama game— the Iron Bowl, one of the most intense rivalries in the

nation— is the highlight of the school year. “Any Alabama football game is a fes-

tival,” a sophomore says. Men’s baseball, basketball, women’s gymnastics, and

cross-country have brought home recent Southeastern Conference titles. ’Bama

sports a number of solid nonathletic teams as well, including the Alabama Forensic

Council, which consistently places in the top 10 in national competition. Intramural

and club sports draw about 13 percent of students.

Although sports are still an integral part of the UA experience, the university’s

declared emphasis is now on technology, merit scholarships, global perspectives,

and undergraduate research. It’s an approach that’s bringing in more serious, cos-

mopolitan students. Best of all, says one finance and marketing major, “The stu-

dents are so friendly, if you pass someone on the quad and say ‘Roll Tide,’ you’ve

pretty much made a friend for life.”

Overlaps

University of

Alabama at

Birmingham,

Auburn, University

of Mississippi,

University of

Georgia, University

of Tennessee

Knoxville, Florida

State, University of

Florida

If You Apply To ›

Alabama: Rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application. Please consult Alabama’s website for the most up- to- date

information regarding standardized test requirements.

Albion College

Albion, MI 49224

Nestled between evangelical Hope and Calvin and out- there Kalamazoo, Albion is

Michigan’s middle- of- the- road liberal arts college. Think Gerald Ford, the moderate

Republican president who is the namesake of Albion’s signature institute for public

service. Serious emphasis on hands- on learning. Future doctors, lawyers, and

businesspeople are well served.

Albion College is a small, private college in Michigan that emphasizes the importance

of mixing learning with hands- on experience, particularly when it comes to com-

munity engagement and service. Albion helps students achieve their goals through

personal attention from professors, internships, and a devoted alumni network, and

despite its small- town setting, the college has managed to attract an increasingly

diverse student body. In the words of a mathematics major, “The culture of Albion

College is centered around inclusion and helping people find out who they are.”

Founded in 1835 by the Methodist Church, Albion is located near the banks

of the Kalamazoo River, about 90 miles west of Detroit. In addition to its newer

Georgian- style architecture, the college has retained and restored several of its 19th-

century buildings. The campus is spacious, with statuesque oaks and a beautiful

nature center. Robinson Hall, the campus centerpiece, houses myriad departments,

including the Shaw Center for Gender Equity. The college’s equestrian center is

home to one of the largest indoor riding arenas in the United States.

Albion has a rich academic history and was the first private college in Michigan

to have a Phi Beta Kappa chapter (1940). Students are required to take core courses

distributed among humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, fine arts, and math.

They must also satisfy requirements in environmental science and gender and

Website: www .albion .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,441

Undergraduates: 1,441

Male/Female: 48/52

Financial Aid: 100%

Pell Grant: 47%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 74%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 6,827

Accepted: 67%

Enrolled: 9%

Grad in 6 Years: 59%

Returning Freshmen: 73%

Academics:

- - -

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ALBION COLLEGE 9

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

ethnicity studies. Freshmen take a first- year seminar designed to provide a “stimulat-

ing learning environment” in a small- class setting; recent offerings include Ancient

Aliens and Lost Civilizations, Fly Me to the Moon, and To Sleep or Not to Sleep. The

academic climate is described as competitive in certain departments but generally

supportive and positive. Sixty- eight percent of classes have fewer than 20 students,

and professors are said to be interested in students’ academic performance and their

emotional well- being. According to a senior, “The professors at Albion put the stu-

dents first in every situation.”

Consistent with Albion’s interest in developing civic leaders, the Gerald R. Ford

Institute for Leadership in Public Policy and Service takes an innovative approach:

students participate in a simulation of city government in which they play the roles

of community leaders. Visiting speakers include

senators and congresspeople, governors and state

legislators, and interest- group representatives.

Albion’s Wilson Institute for Medicine supports

the popular premed program. Three other established centers and institutes, dedi-

cated to business and management, sustainability and the environment, and teacher

development, offer courses, specialized academic advising, field trips, speakers, and

other immersive opportunities that enhance the learning experience. “Take advan-

tage of the academic institutes on campus!” urges a biology major. Albion’s econom-

ics and management, psychology, and exercise science majors are well respected, as

is the prelaw program. Other popular majors include biology and communication

studies. A new earth and environment department combines the sustainability,

environment, and geology departments into one interdisciplinary department,

which launched a new minor in environmental studies.

Launched in 2021, Albion’s School for Public Purpose and Professional

Advancement houses the college’s various institutes and centers, including the

recently created Institute for Race and Belonging. In addition, the school sponsors

an “experiential certificate” that combines coursework with hands- on learning

opportunities (internships, volunteer work, etc.) and professional training in areas

such as project management and human resources. The school also provides real-

world learning environments, including a student- run consulting firm and a social

innovation incubator. Albion’s Foundation for Undergraduate Research, Scholarship,

and Creative Activity, which pairs students from all disciplines with faculty men-

tors, is highly commended by students. One participant, a biochemistry major, says,

“My professor walked me through new and old techniques individually, so I feel

much more independent in the lab than most.” An honors program is available for

highly motivated students. For those looking to take their educational experience to

more distant shores, Albion offers more than 100 study abroad programs in 30 coun-

tries; 9 percent of students go abroad.

Albion attracts an ambitious, involved group of students. Michigan residents

make up 76 percent of the student population, and just 4 percent hail from abroad.

“Since my first semester here, the school has evolved in a big way in terms of diver-

sity,” says a junior; currently, 17 percent of stu-

dents are Black, 12 percent are Hispanic/Latino,

2 percent are Asian American, and 4 percent are

multiracial. Politically, the student body is a rel-

atively moderate mix of liberals and conserva-

tives concerned with issues like racial and social

injustice. There are a number of merit scholarships available, averaging $39,302, but

no athletic scholarships. The Albion College Promise covers full tuition and fees for

in- state students from families that make less than $65,000 per year. Forty- seven

percent of freshmen are now Pell- eligible.

(continued)

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (517) 629- 0321

Email Address: admission @

albion .edu

Strong Programs:

Public Policy

Economics and Management

Psychology

Exercise Science

Biology

Communication Studies

Environmental Studies

Premed

“The professors at Albion

put the students first in

every situation.”

The school provides

real- world learning

environments,

including a student-

run consulting

firm and a social

innovation incubator.

“My professor walked

me through new and old

techniques individually,

so I feel much more

independent in the lab.”

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10 ALBION COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Since Albion is a residential college, 94 percent of students call the co- ed resi-

dence halls home, and the general consensus is that the accommodations “could use

some updating to make them appear more modern and comfortable,” reports a

senior. The majority of the freshman class inhabits Wesley Hall. During their soph-

omore year, many students move to the suite- style rooms in Whitehouse Hall or

Mitchell Towers; seniors occupy apartment- style housing called The Mae. Meals are

served in the centrally located dining hall and are said to be “pretty good” but lack-

ing variety. Students rate campus security staff and counseling services— including

efforts to prevent sexual assault— highly.

Thirty- five percent of Albion men and 29 percent of the women belong to one

of the school’s six national fraternities and seven sororities. Greek parties draw

large crowds, composed of Greeks and non- Greeks, making them a primary part

of many students’ social lives. “Campus Safety monitors every party and there is a

curfew in place,” notes a sophomore. Students 21 and older may consume alcohol

in certain campus residence areas. A well- run union board organizes all sorts of

activities— films, lectures, plays, comedians, and concerts— to keep students occu-

pied in their spare time. On the weekends, Ann Arbor, East Lansing, and Chicago are

frequent road- trip destinations.

Students report that the town of Albion’s annual Festival of the Forks is always

highly anticipated, and the movie theater is free for students with a valid school ID.

“Downtown Albion may be quaint, but it is growing and thriving with support from

both the college and the community,” comments

a psychology major. Newer developments include

a brewpub, a bakery, a bookstore/coffeehouse, a

community center, and a community theater.

Students focus some of their energy by working

for groups supported by the Student Volunteer Bureau; in fact, half of the students

volunteer in the community on a regular basis, participating in “city clean- up day,

Habitat for Humanity, and volunteering at nursing homes and schools.” Some tradi-

tional events that offer a nice break from academics are the Big Show, which brings a

major artist or comedian to campus, and the Day of Woden, which is a picnic held

in the spring on the last day of class.

The Britons football team competes in the Division III Michigan Intercollegiate

Athletic Association and has won 38 conference championships— the most in MIAA

history. Other strong teams include men’s and women’s lacrosse and track and field,

as well as co- ed equestrian. Men’s and women’s wrestling and co- ed eSports were

recently added to the varsity roster. Hope College is a bitter rival, as is Alma College.

Some of the most popular intramural and club sports include basketball, sand vol-

leyball, soccer, and canoeing.

At Albion College, professors are accessible and interested, academics are chal-

lenging without being overwhelming, and students feel supported and motivated.

At the same time, increasing efforts to connect students with real- world learning

and service opportunities are garnering more applications from more diverse groups

of students. In the words of one senior, “Even though Albion is a small school in a

rural town in Michigan, we want to make a big impact on the world and make our

school known.”

The town of Albion’s

annual Festival of the

Forks is always highly

anticipated, and the

movie theater is free

for students with a

valid school ID.

“Since my first semester

here, the school has

evolved in a big way in

terms of diversity.”

Overlaps

Alma, Kalamazoo,

Adrian, Trine,

Hope, Ursinus,

Washington &

Jefferson, Michigan

State

If You Apply To ›

Albion: Early action, rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult Albion’s website

for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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ALFRED UNIVERSITY 11

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Alfred University

Alumni Hall, 1 Saxon Drive, Alfred, NY 14802

BEST

BUY

Talk about an unusual combination: Alfred combines a nationally renowned and

state- supported college of ceramics, a school of art and design, an engineering

program, and a business school wrapped up in a university of 1,300 undergraduates.

The Finger Lakes is a region full of natural beauty, but it takes elbow grease to pry

coastal types to the hinterlands of western New York.

With about 1,300 undergraduate students, Alfred University isn’t a bustling aca-

demic factory; it’s a quiet, cloistered, self- described “educational village” in a tiny

town wholly dedicated to the “industry of learning.” The university, founded in

1836, boasts highly respected programs in art and design, as well as ceramic engi-

neering. Innovation not only shapes the curriculum but also has a profound effect

on campus life. Small classes and friendly competition support this diversity while

encouraging individuals to succeed. Along with being able to handle the academic

rigors of the college, students also have to weather brutal winters that dump snow

by the foot on the region.

Alfred’s campus consists of a charming, close- knit group of modern and Georgian

brick buildings, accompanied by a stone castle. The Kanakadea Creek runs right

through campus, and the town of Alfred (population 4,900) consists of two colleges

(the other is Alfred State College) and a main street with one stoplight. There are

a few shops and restaurants, but certainly no malls, parking lots, or tall buildings.

Notable campus facilities include the 36 kilns in Harder Hall and the five telescopes

at the Stull Observatory.

The university and its students share a no- nonsense approach to education.

Although prospective students apply directly to one of four colleges and declare a ten-

tative major, half of all requirements for a bachelor’s degree are earned in the liberal

arts college. Requirements are quite different in each school. However, the mix usu-

ally includes coursework in oral and written communication, quantitative reasoning,

humanities, social and natural sciences, global perspectives, and health and wellness.

All new students fulfill the one- credit Common Ground requirement, a series of dis-

cussions on diversity and inclusion.

Alfred, though private, is actually the “host” school for the New York State

College of Ceramics, which is a unit of the state university system and comes with a

modest public university price tag. Ceramic engineering (the development and

refinement of ceramic materials) is the academic cornerstone and the program that

brings Alfred international recognition. All engineering programs are found within

the Inamori School of Engineering, including uncommon majors in materials sci-

ence and engineering, renewable energy engineering, and glass engineering science.

The School of Art and Design’s art department, with its programs in ceramics, glass,

printmaking, sculpture, video, interactive media,

and teacher certification, is also highly regarded.

The College of Business gets good reviews from

students and provides undergraduates with work

experience through a small business institute where students have real clients. Art

and design majors are the most popular, followed by mechanical engineering, busi-

ness administration, and psychology. Newer degrees include a B.A. in computer sci-

ence and a B.S. in biochemistry. The Track II program enables students to design

their own interdisciplinary majors with personal guidance from top faculty

members.

Website: www .alfred .edu

Location: Rural

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,576

Undergraduates: 1,311

Male/Female: 47/50

Financial Aid: 87%

Pell Grant: 41%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 73%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 6,698

Accepted: 52%

Enrolled: 10%

Grad in 6 Years: 54%

Returning Freshmen: 72%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (607) 871- 2115

Email Address: admissions @

alfred .edu

Strong Programs:

Ceramic Engineering

Materials Science and

Engineering

Renewable Energy Engineering

Glass Engineering Science

Art and Design

Mechanical Engineering

Business Administration

Psychology

“Alfred is pretty competitive.

The studio courses are

challenging.”

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12 ALFRED UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

“I would say that Alfred is pretty competitive,” says a junior. “The studio courses

are challenging,” adds a sophomore. Whatever their major, all students enjoy small

classes, and the quality of teaching is reported as high. Most classes are taught by full

professors, with graduate students and teaching assistants helping out only in lab

sessions. “Most teachers have high expectations, resulting in greater student perfor-

mance,” says one junior. Alfred’s academic advising and career planning services

stress the university’s commitment to helping undergrads plan their future. Through

the APEX (Applied and Experiential Learning) program, juniors and seniors can

apply for up to $1,000 in funding to help offset costs associated with pursuing

hands- on experiences like internships, apprenticeships, study abroad, and research

positions. Faculty- led study abroad programs are offered during the May term and

spring break, in addition to hundreds of exchange and affiliate programs, but only

3 percent of students study internationally. Seventy- five percent do research, often

as senior capstone projects.

Alfred students are “creative and like to be challenged,” says a business admin-

istration major. Seventy- four percent of the students at Alfred are from New York

State, and 6 percent are international. Black stu-

dents make up 12 percent of the student body,

Hispanics/Latinos 10 percent, Asian Americans

2 percent, and multiracial students 2 percent.

Forty- one percent of freshmen are Pell- eligible, a

notable number for a school of Alfred’s size. Outstanding students can apply for

many merit scholarships, averaging $19,900. There are no athletic scholarships.

Eighty- nine percent of students live in campus housing, and no one seems to

mind the three- year residency requirement because the rooms in the co- ed dorms

are large and comfortable. Upperclassmen have a choice of single rooms, suites,

or apartments. Special- interest housing, such as Modern Language House and

Unity House, is another option. The school has two dining halls, and students

say the offerings include plenty of selections for vegetarians and vegans. “The

dining facilities are very nice and well equipped, and the food is both diverse and

edible,” says a junior. Campus security is good, according to most students. “AU

security will provide rides or walking escorts if you feel unsafe walking alone,” a

biology major says.

Alfred’s location in the Finger Lakes region, almost two hours from Buffalo

and an hour and a half from Rochester, is isolated. The other chief complaint is

the chilly, snowy weather. Social life is a challenge due to the rural atmosphere

and lack of Greek organizations, but the Student Activities Board brings many

diversions to campus, including musicians, comedians, lecturers, and movies.

Alfred is a dry campus, and students say the alcohol policy is largely respected

and enforced in the dorms. “Alfred doesn’t have too many problems with drink-

ing that I have heard of,” a student says. Because the university shares the town

with Alfred State College, students account for 85 percent of the population, all

of which makes Alfred a good college town and “a very close community,”

observes a biology major. The downtown scene provides students with an ade-

quate number of movie theaters and eateries, and many students volunteer in

the community. Every spring brings the annual Hot Dog Weekend, a big carnival-

like event that fills Main Street with game booths, bands, and lots of hot dog

stands.

Alfred’s Division III Saxons are ominous opponents on the football, soccer,

and lacrosse fields, and the softball team is a recent Empire 8 Conference cham-

pion. The equestrian team is competitive too. Many Alfred students are skiing,

hunting, camping, and rock- climbing enthusiasts, and favorite road trips include

Letchworth and Stony Brook state parks, as well as Ithaca, Rochester, Buffalo, and

Notable campus

facilities include the

36 kilns in Harder

Hall and the five

telescopes at the

Stull Observatory.

“The dining facilities

are very nice and well

equipped, and the food is

both diverse and edible.”

The Student Activities

Board brings many

diversions to campus,

including musicians,

comedians, lecturers,

and movies.

Overlaps

St. John Fisher,

Clarkson, Rochester

Institute of

Technology,

SUNY– Buffalo,

SUNY– Geneseo,

Alfred State,

Buffalo State

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ALLEGHENY COLLEGE 13

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Toronto. Intramurals and club sports draw nearly half of the students, with soccer,

basketball, and handball being most popular.

“Alfred University will prepare you to go into the real world,” says a freshman.

Although small and somewhat secluded, Alfred University is a good choice for those

students who want to concentrate on the ABCs of arts, business, and ceramic

engineering— just be sure to bundle up for the long, snowy winters.

If You Apply To ›

Alfred: Early action, rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Applicants to School of Art and

Design must submit portfolio. Please consult Alfred’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized

test requirements.

Allegheny College

520 North Main Street, Meadville, PA 16335

An unpretentious cousin to more well- heeled places like Dickinson and Bucknell.

Draws heavily from the Buffalo- Cleveland- Pittsburgh area. The college’s powerhouse

athletic teams feast on their Division III competition. Fraternities and sororities give

Allegheny a robust traditional college life. If you’ve ever wondered what lake- effect

snow is, you’ll find out here.

Allegheny College is a down- to- earth Eastern liberal arts school boasting a rich history

of academic excellence in an intimate setting. Administrators here understand the

importance of providing students with real- world experience to complement their

classroom work, and the school places a special emphasis on the development of oral

communication skills. Allegheny’s small size means students get plenty of personal

attention, and despite the heavy workload, anyone struggling academically will get

help before the situation becomes dire.

Allegheny’s 80- acre campus is tucked away in Meadville, Pennsylvania, 90 miles

north of Pittsburgh. Founded in 1815 to bring New England– style education to what

was then the frontier, the school is nestled in the Norman Rockwell– esque rolling

hills of northwestern Pennsylvania. The campus is home to traditional architecture

and redbrick walkways, as well as newer additions such as apartment- style housing

for upperclassmen. A nationally acclaimed science complex supports already strong

programs, and the college also owns a 283- acre research reserve and an 80- acre pro-

tected forest. Recent campus projects include the Allegheny Lab for Innovation and

Creativity, which houses high- tech fabrication and computer labs and a total reno-

vation of the school’s oldest building, Bentley Hall.

Allegheny operates on two 15- week semesters each year, and each features an

Academic Programming Day: classes do not meet and students participate in a vari-

ety of college- sponsored programs, including open houses and advising and career

counseling workshops. Allegheny’s curriculum requires all students to complete at

least one minor in addition to their major, each in a different division. Students also

take at least one course in each of eight distribution areas: civic learning; human

experience; international and intercultural perspectives; modes of expression; power,

privilege, and difference; quantitative reasoning; scientific process and knowledge;

and social behavior and institutions. Freshmen enroll in two first- year seminars that

help them transition to college- level work and develop writing and speaking skills.

Sophomores complete a communication- focused seminar, juniors take a seminar in

Website: www .allegheny .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,525

Undergraduates: 1,525

Male/Female: 46/54

Financial Aid: 90%

Pell Grant: 25%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 76%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 4,667

Accepted: 75%

Enrolled: 12%

Grad in 6 Years: 75%

Returning Freshmen: 83%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 521- 5293

Email Address: admissions @

allegheny .edu

Strong Programs:

Environmental Science and

Sustainability

Economics

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14 ALLEGHENY COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

their major field, and seniors pursue an intensive capstone project in their major,

where they are required to orally defend a work of independent research.

The school’s strongest programs include environmental science and sustainabil-

ity, economics, physical and biological sciences, computer science, and interna-

tional studies (which offers a track in Middle Eastern and North African studies).

Biology, psychology, environmental science, and eco-

nomics enroll the most students. Accelerated and

dual- degree programs include 3– 2, 3– 3, and 3– 4

options leading to degrees in engineering, public

policy and management, psychology, and several

health professions, from physician assistant to pharmacy.

“The courses offered at Allegheny challenge students to think independently

and develop complex ideas through integration of the course topics,” says a biology

major. Students praise the faculty for their passion, knowledge, and accessibility.

“All the professors I’ve had take my success very seriously and understand that my

learning is different from other students’,” comments an economics major. You

won’t find a teaching assistant at the lectern in any Allegheny classroom, and

82 percent of courses have fewer than 20 students. The college’s honor code allows

students to take unproctored exams.

The Maytum Center for Student Success works with students interested in study

abroad, community service, and undergraduate research, and the school encourages

students to have multiple experiences in these areas. While the Career Education office

helps students with career exploration, finding internships, and mentoring. “The

people working in the [Career Education] offices

are helpful and have a great network established,”

says a junior. Off campus, the college offers spon-

sored study- away programs in several U.S. cities

and 15 countries, as well as semester internships

and field- based research opportunities. Twenty- one percent of students partake in

some type of international experience. There’s also an on- campus independent study

option, and a three- or four- week Experiential Learning term in May that allows stu-

dents to pursue short- term study abroad programs and internships that aren’t available

during the year. Allegheny boasts an award- winning undergraduate research program,

and more than 100 students receive funding each summer to participate in faculty-

guided research.

Forty- nine percent of Allegheny’s students hail from Pennsylvania, and sizable

contingents come from Ohio, New York, and California. Four percent of students

are international. “I would describe the general student body as curious, hard-

working, and tolerant,” says a global health studies major. Black students make up

8 percent of the student population, Hispanics/Latinos 9 percent, Asian Americans

3 percent, and multiracial students 4 percent. Politically, a sophomore reports, the

school “veers heavily left,” and students cite environmental sustainability as a top

concern; in 2020, Allegheny became the first college in the state to achieve carbon

neutrality. Merit scholarships averaging $33,000 are available, but there are no ath-

letic awards.

Allegheny students live on campus for all four years, a requirement that a senior

says “helps build community but also means that people live in a dorm room longer

than they may want to.” Options include all- freshman dorms, co- ed and single- sex

halls, small special- interest houses, and apartment- style housing for juniors and

seniors. Students are mostly satisfied with their on- campus food choices and note

that the dining staff encourages suggestions. A student organization called Why Not

Us? actively promotes sexual assault awareness and advocacy.

According to a senior, “People stay on campus on the weekends to hang out,

(continued)

Physical Sciences

Computer Science

International Studies

Biology

Psychology

“The courses offered

at Allegheny challenge

students to think

independently.”

Allegheny’s curriculum

requires all students

to complete at least

one minor in addition

to their major, each in

a different division.

“The people working in the

[Career Education] offices

are helpful and have a

great network established.”

Allegheny boasts

an award- winning

undergraduate

research program,

and more than 100

students receive

funding to participate

in faculty- guided

research.

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ALLEGHENY COLLEGE 15

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

since we all live here”— and because school policies allow alcohol on campus for

those of age. Fraternities and sororities draw 14 percent of the men and 9 per-

cent of the women and provide a great deal of nightlife, but no one describes

Allegheny as a party school. The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement

offers a campus theater series, free movies in the quad, and comedians, hypno-

tists, slam poets, and live bands. Homecoming, Wingfest in the fall (featuring free

chicken wings), and Springfest (a day full of bands, activities, and food) break

up the monotony of studying, and midnight breakfasts help ease end- of- semester

stress. When you’re crossing the campus’s Rustic Bridge at the start of the year,

remember to look down— it’s a long- standing Allegheny tradition for students to

steal the 13th plank.

Downtown Meadville is a 10- minute walk from campus and worlds away from

a college town, although a junior points out that “there are some hidden gems,

including great restaurants, a movie theater, and a bowling alley.” It also has sev-

eral community playhouses, as well as schools,

hospitals, children’s homes, animal shelters,

and other organizations that benefit from the

more than 60,000 hours of service that students

contribute each year. “We’ve really gotten to

know the local businesses and take pride in sup-

porting our local community,” says an English major. Large- scale philanthropic

events like Make a Difference Day and Service Saturdays are particularly popular.

When students hit the road, they usually venture to factory outlets in nearby Grove

City, Pennsylvania, or toward the bright lights of Pittsburgh, Erie, or Cleveland.

Nearby state parks, Conneaut Lake, and Lake Erie offer hiking, waterskiing, and

boating in warm weather and cross- country skiing in the winter.

Athletics play a big role in Allegheny life, and the Wise Sport and Fitness Center

gives students looking to break a sweat reason to cheer. About a third of Allegheny

students compete in Division III athletics, and the Gators field 23 varsity teams,

most of which compete in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference. Baseball, men’s and

women’s cross- country, and women’s track and field, volleyball, and golf are the

most competitive teams. Ten percent of students participate in club and intramural

sports, with ice hockey, ultimate Frisbee, basketball, and equestrian sports drawing

the most interest.

In anticipation of future enrollment declines, Allegheny has recently reduced

the size of its faculty and eliminated majors in geology, religious studies, and film

and digital storytelling. Nevertheless, the college continues to augment its rich his-

tory of academic excellence with a growing emphasis on extracurricular experiences

designed to produce well- rounded alumni. The campus’s natural beauty and the

genuine affection students feel for it and for each other remain unchanged. What’s

more, students appreciate the value placed on individuality and involvement.

“Students are encouraged to explore their unusual combinations of interests, skills,

and talents,” says one junior. “The word ‘no’ is not often used here.”

About a third of

Allegheny students

compete in Division III

athletics, and the

Gators field 23

varsity teams.

“We’ve really gotten

to know the local

businesses and take pride

in supporting our local

community.”

Overlaps

Gettysburg,

Dickinson, Denison,

College of Wooster,

Kenyon, Bucknell,

Washington and

Jefferson, Franklin

& Marshall

If You Apply To ›

Allegheny: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application

with supplement.

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16 ALMA COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Alma College

Alma, MI 48801- 1599

The college that put the “Alma” back in “alma mater.” As friendly a campus as you’ll

find, Alma savors its Scottish heritage and combines the liberal arts with strengths in

health and preprofessional fields. Students are fairly diverse socioeconomically, but

few out- of- staters enroll. If central Michigan eventually gives you cabin fever, join

the hordes who go abroad. Bring your bagpipes.

A tiny gem on Michigan’s lower peninsula, Alma College was founded in 1886 by

Presbyterians with an ambitious fourfold mission: “To prepare graduates who think

critically, serve generously, lead purposefully, and live responsibly as stewards of the

world they bequeath to future generations.” Located in the city dubbed “Scotland,

USA,” the college puts its strong Scottish Presbyterian heritage on display. “Every

spring, the city of Alma holds an annual Highland Festival that draws participants

from all over the world,” explains an environmental health major. “Our marching

band also wears traditional Scottish kilts to every football game.” Alma offers a wide

array of choices for its undergraduates, including distinctive programs in health and

preprofessional fields, as well as plenty of opportunities to learn abroad.

Alma’s campus, located an hour north of the state capital of Lansing, features

27 Prairie- style buildings of red brick and limestone surrounding a scenic central

mall. Although Alma was founded in 1886, most of the buildings have been built

or renovated in recent years. There are lots of trees and open places to sit, at least in

the warmer months. A major renovation of the college’s library was completed in

early 2023.

Alma’s recently updated general education requirements include a First- Year

Seminar to help ease the transition into college and coursework in writing, math,

and a foreign language. During their first two years, students take four Explore

courses, one in each of the following categories: making and understanding the arts,

self and society, applying scientific thinking, and engaging in equity and justice. An

interdisciplinary seminar is required in the junior or senior year. A peer mentoring

program places successful upper- class students in contact with new students to help

them adapt to the opportunities and expectations of the Alma community. Students

accepted to the four- year Presidential Honors Program complete a two- credit honors

seminar for each of their first two years, followed by an honors thesis or research

project their junior and senior years.

The college offers nearly 50 majors, of which integrative physiology and health

science, biology, business administration, new media studies, and political science

are some of the strongest. Alma’s most popular majors, by student enrollment, are

business administration, integrative physiology

and health science, education, nursing, and psy-

chology. A number of health- related preprofes-

sional tracks are available, ranging from dentistry

and optometry to physical therapy and sports medicine, in addition to preprofes-

sional programs for engineering and law. Students interested in the Scottish arts find

a range of opportunities to work with nationally known instructors of bagpipe and

Highland dance.

According to a psychology major, the academic atmosphere is “relaxed, but the

workload is busy.” Sixty- nine percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, and

many of them incorporate service- learning opportunities. Undergraduate research

is big at Alma, too, with 39 percent of students pursuing an independent project

Website: www .alma .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,311

Undergraduates: 1,298

Male/Female: 42/58

Financial Aid: 81%

Pell Grant: 26%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 79%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 2,908

Accepted: 69%

Enrolled: 16%

Grad in 6 Years: 63%

Returning Freshmen: 79%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 321- 2562

Email Address: admissions @

alma .edu

Strong Programs:

Integrative Physiology and

Health Science

Biology

Business Administration

New Media Studies

Political Science

Education

Nursing

Psychology

“[The academic

atmosphere is] relaxed, but

the workload is busy.”

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ALMA COLLEGE 17

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

under a professor’s guidance or joining faculty projects. “Your professors double as

your advisors, which allows you to build great relationships with them,” explains a

communication major.

Alma’s student- centered philosophy is exemplified by the Alma Commitment,

which offers a promise that students will graduate on time (within four or four and

a half years, depending on the major) and a pledge that each interested student can

undertake an experiential learning opportunity, such as an internship, research fel-

lowship, or study abroad. Participating students receive up to $2,500 in Alma

Venture funding. Despite Alma’s small size and rural surroundings, the terms “pro-

vincial” and “insular” just don’t apply here. International study is highly encour-

aged, and 36 percent of students go abroad. Fittingly, Alma has a study abroad

partnership with the University of Aberdeen in Scotland, along with programs in 14

other countries. During the one- month spring term in May, students enroll in a

single intensive course; about a third of the courses offered involve off- campus

travel, such as studying social change in China, rainforest ecology in Costa Rica, and

backpack filmmaking in Italy. Additionally, the Posey Global Leadership Initiative

funds more than 30 fellowships each year for students to participate in international

internship, research, and leadership experiences. “I’ve been on five continents

in the past four years thanks to this program, and each time I was able to give back

to the community I went to,” enthuses an environmental science major.

“Most students are really friendly and willing to help other people out, even if

they do not know them well,” says a senior. The campus is largely homogeneous,

with 89 percent of the student population

coming from Michigan and 3 percent from

abroad. Black students account for 4 percent,

Asian Americans 1 percent, Hispanics/Latinos

5 percent, and multiracial students 3 percent of

the student population. Alma is generally not an overly political campus. Brainy

types can vie for merit scholarships that average $27,600; there are no athletic

scholarships.

Eighty- eight percent of Alma’s students reside on campus, and the college has

invested $24 million in remodeling and modernizing the residence halls. Freshmen

are assigned rooms in co- ed halls, while upperclassmen play the lottery and usually

get suites. Other options include an international house, a Model UN house, and

college- owned apartments in a historic, converted opera house downtown. For meals,

students go to the all- you- can- eat Hamilton Commons or Joe’s Place, a snack bar, and

most students describe the food as adequate. Students say they feel safe on campus,

and a senior comments, “When there is a report filed with the Title IX office, it is

handled promptly, discreetly, and respectfully.”

When it comes time to socialize, the Alma College Union Board provides plenty

of on- campus fun. “We offer music performances, movie nights, speakers, student

panels, and tons of events in the dorms,” says a senior. Twenty- three percent of the

men and 28 percent of the women go Greek. Parties at Greek houses are registered

and monitored by security officers who scan IDs and distribute wristbands; students

say these policies help keep underage drinking in check.

Town/gown relations at Alma are strong, with the vast majority of students

volunteering, taking part- time jobs, and otherwise getting involved in the commu-

nity. When it comes to nightlife, though, one student says the small city of Alma

(population 9,000) “does not offer too much to do,” other than a movie theater

and a few restaurants. The annual Highland Festival features traditional Scottish

games, bagpipers, and dancing; for members of the Alma marching band, who strut

in kilts stitched from the school’s own registered Alma College tartan, every perfor-

mance might as well be a festival. Students with wheels will find diversions within

During the one- month

spring term in May,

students enroll in a

single intensive course.

“Your professors double

as your advisors, which

allows you to build great

relationships.”

The annual Highland

Festival features

traditional Scottish

games, bagpipers,

and dancing.

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18 ALVERNO COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

easy reach, as Mount Pleasant, Saginaw, and the East Lansing campus of Michigan

State are less than an hour away, and ski slopes are just a bit farther. In the warmer

months, the beaches of two Great Lakes, Huron and Michigan, are two hours away.

The Alma Scots compete in Division III as a member of the Michigan

Intercollegiate Athletic Association. Alma offers 26 varsity sports— including an

eSports program— and some of the strongest include wrestling, men’s lacrosse, and

women’s volleyball. “The Alma community loves

supporting athletics, and you can always expect

a large student section at home events,” cheers a

sophomore. For nonvarsity types, there is an active intramural program— about

30 percent of the students participate. Alma’s Model United Nations team has

received top recognition at the National Model UN Conference in New York City for

a record 27 consecutive years (1997 through 2023), the longest streak of any college

or university.

Alma challenges students to take their learning beyond the classroom and

around the globe, and with caring faculty— and ample funding for off- campus

experiences— students feel supported every step of the way. While students enjoy

their school’s warm, inviting atmosphere, they’re also eager to venture out, explore,

and pursue their goals. But no matter where their futures take them, for Alma

alumni, bagpipes and the college choir’s version of “Loch Lomond” will ring in

their ears.

“The Alma community loves

supporting athletics.”

Overlaps

Albion, Adrian,

Trine, Olivet,

Hope, Kalamazoo,

Augustana (IL),

College of Wooster

If You Apply To ›

Alma: Rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with Alma supplement. Please consult Alma’s website for the

most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements

Alverno College

3400 South 43rd Street, P.O. Box 343922, Milwaukee, WI 53234

At last, a college that evaluates students on what they can do rather than how well

they can memorize. Forget oval- blackening; students here show mastery in their

chosen fields. Practical and hands- on, Alverno gives its all- female and economically

diverse students the real- life experience necessary to succeed beyond graduation.

If you’re the type of student who obsesses over your GPA, take heed: at Alverno

College, you can forget about earning an A. This Roman Catholic, women’s liberal

arts college emphasizes ability- based learning instead of letter grades. While its

roots go back to 1887, Alverno came into its own in the 1970s with its distinctive

approach to learning and, unlike other educational innovations of that era, has

found a continuing niche. The student body is diverse— in age, background, and

religion— and while the ability- based method centers on individual growth, the

learning environment is highly collaborative. “Alverno is empowering,” says a

music therapy major, because it’s all about “finding each student’s gifts and cele-

brating them.”

Alverno is located in a quiet residential area of Milwaukee. The parklike 46-

acre campus is just 15 minutes from downtown and a 10- minute walk from shops

and restaurants. The Sister Joel Read Center houses 73,000 square feet of science

labs, multimedia production space, and computer facilities. Alexia Hall features

Website: www .alverno .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,166

Undergraduates: 585

Male/Female: 1/98

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 59%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 86%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 652

Accepted: 90%

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ALVERNO COLLEGE 19

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

a high- tech nursing simulation center, art and dance studios, classrooms, private

study rooms, and a student commons area.

Alverno students are required to show mastery in eight key abilities: communi-

cation, analysis, problem- solving, valuing in decision- making, social interaction,

developing a global perspective, effective citizenship, and aesthetic engagement.

Students move through interdisciplinary pro-

gressive levels toward a degree by being “vali-

dated” in these areas. For example, a course in

sociology might contribute to validation in com-

munication and social interaction, as well as in

making independent value judgments. The col-

lege offers detailed feedback rather than letter grades, and faculty find innovative,

“real- life” ways to assess students’ mastery of subject matter. First- year students take

a First- Semester Seminar and introductory courses in the arts and humanities,

science, psychology and social science, communication, and math. Religious

studies aren’t required, but a Catholic liturgy is available. The college recently has

added programs in public health and data science. Students are also required to

participate in off- campus, credit- bearing internships through Alverno’s highly

acclaimed internship program— one of the longest- standing programs of its type

in the country.

“The level of professionalism that Alverno students have compared to those at

other colleges or universities is amazing,” one junior says. Alverno’s nursing, educa-

tion, and business programs are well established and among the most popular

majors, along with psychology and biology. Students praise the communication,

social work, and music therapy programs as well. Many professors at Alverno teach

all levels of classes, so the quality of teaching is consistent throughout a student’s

college career, and regular academic advising keeps students on track. With 93 per-

cent of classes enrolling fewer than 20 students and a low student/faculty ratio,

students have easy access to faculty. “The faculty and staff really care whether you

are successful,” says a student. “They want to see you achieve and are willing to go

[above] and beyond to make sure you do.” Alverno also boasts a dedicated Career

Studio that provides career planning and job search assistance to students and alum-

nae, including frequent networking and on- campus recruiting events with employ-

ers. “We couldn’t have more help,” one junior says. A small number of Alverno

students study abroad, often heading out on short, 10- to 14- day trips that comple-

ment a semester- long course. Twenty- five percent of students undertake faculty-

guided research projects.

“Students are extraordinarily driven, and they know what it takes to succeed in

the real world,” says a junior. Ninety percent of Alverno undergraduates hail from

Wisconsin, and a quarter are above the age of 24; there are few international stu-

dents. Alverno is one of the most inclusive and

diverse colleges in the state, particularly socio-

economically: 59 percent of freshmen are eligible

for Pell Grants. Black students account for 16 per-

cent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinas

40 percent, Asian Americans 5 percent, and multiracial students 4 percent. Thirty-

two percent of students are Catholic. According to a sophomore, the political cli-

mate is “fairly liberal, especially in relation to immigration, prison reform, and

women’s and LGBTQ rights.” Merit scholarships are awarded based on a personal

evaluation of each incoming student.

A two- day orientation program serves freshmen, transfer, resident, and commuter

students. The majority of students are commuters, though dorm rooms house 18 per-

cent of students, who say the residence halls offer clean, spacious rooms with fully

(continued)

Enrolled: 23%

Grad in 6 Years: 52%

Returning Freshmen: 72%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

Q of L:

Admissions: (414) 382- 6100

Email Address: admissions @

alverno .edu

Strong Programs:

Nursing

Education

Business

Communication

Social Work

Music Therapy

Psychology

Biology

“The faculty and staff want

to see you achieve and are

willing to go [above] and

beyond to make sure

you do.”

The college offers

detailed feedback

rather than traditional

letter grades.

“Milwaukee is a thriving

city of the arts— visual,

theatrical, and

performance.”

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20 AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

equipped lounges, laundry, and cooking facilities available on each floor. Male visitors

are allowed, but they must sign in and be out by midnight on weekdays. Dining ser-

vices draw complaints for offering limited options (especially for those with dietary

restrictions), inconvenient hours, and overpriced meals. Events like Love Your Body

Week and Denim Day promote student wellness and prevention of sexual violence.

Dozens of cultural, dance, theater, and other student groups are active on

campus, and the school has an on- site childcare center and a fitness center. But most

of the social life takes place off campus at local clubs, bars, restaurants, coffee shops,

and nearby colleges. “Milwaukee is a thriving city of the arts— visual, theatrical, and

performance— not to mention the festivals that go on every year,” says one art edu-

cation major. In addition to a Performing Arts Center, free outdoor concerts, and

multicultural festivals, the city also offers professional sports teams, parks, and shop-

ping centers. Students look forward to Alverno’s annual homecoming festivities and

Community Day, which allows students and faculty to participate in an annual day

of service. “Many of our programs are family friendly and inviting for students with

children to attend,” explains a sophomore.

Alverno competes in Division III athletics, including basketball, cross- country,

golf, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball. The Inferno tennis and basketball teams

have been the most successful programs, having recently set school records for

wins. An informal intramural program occasionally offers activities like kickball and

board- game tournaments. One- credit wellness courses on skills ranging from yoga

and meditation to self- defense and crochet are offered every semester.

Attending a school like Alverno promises an experience far afield in some ways

from the traditional college world. The emphasis on real- world applications builds con-

fidence in one’s actual ability to perform, rather than the ability to score an A. Diverse

students and faculty are often on a first- name basis from the start and build relation-

ships that help students cultivate their personal strengths. The result? In the words of

one biology major, “My school is the most uplifting place that I’ve ever encountered.”

Dozens of cultural,

dance, theater,

and other student

groups are active

on campus, and the

school has an on- site

childcare center and

a fitness center.

Overlaps

UW– Milwaukee,

Mount Mary

University, Carroll

University, Cardinal

Stritch

If You Apply To ›

Alverno: Rolling admissions. Does not accept the Common Application. Admits students who consistently live and identify

as women, regardless of biological sex, and female students who identify as nonbinary or gender nonconforming. Please

consult Alverno’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

American University

4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20016- 8001

If the odds are stacked against you at Georgetown and you can’t see yourself on GW’s

ultra- urban campus, welcome to American University. The allure of AU is simple:

Washington, D.C. American’s campus is an accredited arboretum in a suburban- like

northwest Washington neighborhood with easy access to the Metro and endless

internship opportunities. American is smaller and less selective than GW.

Located just a few miles from our country’s seat of power, American University has

been a breeding ground for the next generation of reporters, diplomats, lobbyists,

political leaders, and policymakers since it opened its doors in 1914. Alongside these

eager buzzhounds is a host of students who take advantage of AU’s strong programs

in the arts, sciences, and business and who recognize that Boston and New York

Website: www .american .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Private

Total Enrollment: 10,616

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AMERICAN UNIVERSITY 21

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

City are not the only tempting urban destinations for college students. “American

University is a diverse, pulsing, and dynamic school driven by some of the best

faculty, staff, scholars, and students in the world,” a senior says. Thanks to phe-

nomenal internships, a comfortable location, and a strong international focus, AU

continues to attract students from around the world.

AU’s 84- acre residential campus is situated in the northwest corner of Washington,

D.C., in an upscale (and safe) area that’s just minutes from downtown; free shuttle

buses transport students to the nearby Metro (subway) station. There’s a mix of clas-

sical and modern architecture. Flower gardens line the parking lots, and the quad has

numerous sitting areas for reflection and study.

The 70,000- square- foot, environmentally friendly

School of International Service building is LEED

Gold– certified. In 2018 AU became the first uni-

versity in the United States to achieve carbon neutrality. AU has been boosting

research efforts in the sciences and recently opened the 125,000- square- foot Hall of

Science, housing four life sciences departments. And in Fall 2021, the Don Myers

Technology and Innovation building opened, which houses high- tech laboratories,

classrooms, and research space.

AU’s core curriculum aims to develop students into “effective citizens” and lifelong

learners. First- years begin by taking Complex Problems, a small- group seminar focused

on analyzing a special topic, and a yearlong AU Experience sequence that acclimates

them to university life. In addition to coursework in writing, math or statistics, and

diversity, students fulfill Habits of Mind requirements that cover five areas, ranging

from ethical reasoning to creativity and aesthetics. “I was impressed by my professor’s

unwavering commitment and enthusiasm,” raves one film major. Finally, all students

complete a capstone course or project in their major. The core still leaves plenty of

time for students to study abroad— choosing from more than 100 programs in over

40 nations— or participate in an internship or community- based research facilitated

by the school’s relationships with hundreds of private, nonprofit, and government

institutions. The school also uses these connections in its Washington Semester, which

combines academic seminars with internships and career guidance. The Cornerstone

program, new in 2021, offers internships and a UK study- abroad for freshmen. Nearly

70 percent of AU students study abroad and 89 percent complete internships.

In the classroom, says a junior international relations major, “I have always felt as

if I was collaborating with my classmates to gain more knowledge, rather than com-

peting for grades.” AU has outstanding programs in political science, international

studies, business, communication studies, journalism, public relations, and environ-

mental science. A popular interdisciplinary major in communication, legal institu-

tions, economics, and government combines many of AU’s traditional strengths, and

students also have the option to design their own interdisciplinary major. In all, stu-

dents may choose from more than 80 programs, including the new Japanese Studies

major. Three- year bachelor’s degree tracks are available in international studies; public

health; and politics, policy, and law; as well as BA/MA degree options. One media arts

and film major who’s pursuing the dual degree says the program “lets me apply one

class’s credit to both my undergraduate and graduate requirements.” Sixty- one per-

cent of all classes taken by undergraduates have fewer than 20 students, and teaching

assistants do not teach classes. A four- year honors program offers a select group of

entering students small seminars, special sections of many courses, and designated

floors in the residence halls.

“Students at AU are smart, compassionate, politically aware, and driven to make

the world a better place,” a senior says. AU prides itself on drawing students from

every state and more than 120 foreign countries; just 18 percent of undergrads come

from the D.C. metro region, and nine percent hail from outside the U.S. “AU is a

(continued)

Undergraduates: 7,411

Male/Female: 36/65

Financial Aid: 71%

Pell Grant: 15%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 53%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 19,510

Accepted: 41%

Enrolled: 22%

Grad in 6 Years: 79%

Returning Freshmen: 86%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (202) 885- 6000

Email Address: admissions @

american .edu

Strong Programs:

Political Science

International Studies

Business Administration

Communication Studies

Journalism

Public Relations

Environmental Science

Politics, Policy, and Law

“Students at AU are smart,

compassionate, and

politically aware.”

AU recently opened

a 125,000- square-

foot Hall of Science,

housing four life

sciences departments.

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22 AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

very international campus,” observes one senior. Eight percent of undergraduates

are Black, 12 percent are Hispanic/Latino, 7 percent are Asian American, and 5 per-

cent are multiracial. A relatively high proportion— nearly two- thirds— are women.

A freshman political science major says, “I absolutely love how we have so many

diverse gender identities and sexualities on campus.” Not surprisingly, AU is polit-

ically active. And one freshman notes it “definitely leans more center- left.” But a

junior adds, “You’re able to go about your life on campus without politics being

shoved down your throat.” The university offers hundreds of merit scholarships,

averaging $13,300, and $29,000 in athletic scholarships to new students.

More than two- thirds of AU students live in campus housing, which is guaranteed

for the first two years. AU offers traditional, suite- style, and apartment- style options;

students report that the quality varies. Living/learning options are available for

first- years— one freshman says they “offer a sense of closeness”— including the two-

year Community- Based Research Scholars program, which involves opportunities for

service- oriented research. Campus dining receives mixed reviews. A junior says, “AU

is an open campus and feels very safe,” and educational programming on personal

wellness and preventing sexual assault is extensive. The Center for Well- Being

Programs and Psychology Services has now been integrated into one unit to aid

mental- health support. The school has been affiliated with the United Methodist

Church since its founding.

On- campus social life can be limited, students report, and tends to revolve

around club activities and functions organized by the student government. A small

portion of the student body goes Greek, but a sophomore says, “Most social life

happens downtown at clubs or bars.” The AU

campus is officially dry. The immediate area

around AU has restaurants and shops, and D.C.

offers ample entertainment, much of it free— the art house movie theaters, gallery

openings, pro soccer games, and more. “You just jump on the Metro to get any-

where,” says a communication studies major. Each year, Family Weekend brings

games, rides, and popular bands to campus. Another annual favorite is Founder’s

Week, featuring late- night drag bingo and the Founder’s Day Ball, a formal dance

held at a museum or other location in downtown D.C. Popular road trips include

Baltimore, Williamsburg, Richmond, and Ocean City.

The American University Eagles compete in the Division I Patriot League.

Without a football team, students are most enthusiastic about men’s basketball,

which has been among the most successful teams, along with men’s soccer, wom-

en’s volleyball, and field hockey. Games against Bucknell, Holy Cross, and the Naval

Academy highlight the schedule. Students also take part in roughly 28 intramural

and club sports, ranging from beach volleyball and ultimate frisbee to sailing and

eSports, which are divided into different levels of competitiveness.

AU is heaven on earth for news junkies. But even if you are not addicted to

watching C-SPAN 24/7, AU and Washington, D.C., are still a top combo for a rich

college life. The opportunities for real- world experience— in fields ranging from

business to international studies to political science— are outstanding. But AU is

small enough to keep students from feeling lost in the fast- paced world inside the

Beltway. As a junior explains, “We are a small campus, which gives the feeling of

being out of the city, yet the city is at our fingertips.”

Family Weekend

brings games, rides,

and popular bands to

campus, along with a

carnival on the quad.

“Living/learning options

offer a sense of closeness.”

Overlaps

George

Washington,

University of

Maryland, Syracuse,

NYU, Boston

University, Penn

State, University

of Michigan,

UW– Madison

If You Apply To ›

American: Early decision I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with

supplement.

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AMHERST COLLEGE 23

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Amherst College

Amherst, MA 01002

Original home to the well- rounded, superachieving, gentle- person jock. Compare

to Williams, Middlebury, and Colby. Not Swarthmore, not Wesleyan. Amherst has

always been a standout in part because there are four other local institutions in easy

reach to add diversity and depth. Among the few liberal arts colleges with nearly as

many men as women. National leader among elite privates in seeking socioeconomic

diversity and moving away from legacy admissions.

Amherst was founded in 1821 when the president of Williams College decided that

Williamstown was too remote. With a handful of Williams professors and students

in tow, he relocated 50 miles closer to Boston and set in motion centuries of fierce

rivalry. Amherst has traditionally been a bastion of New England’s elite, but over

the last several decades, it has done an about- face. It has used its $3.3 billion endow-

ment to become a national leader in extending high- quality liberal arts education

to a diverse student body. Indeed, about half of those admitted in the fall of 2022

were domestic students of color. In 2020, the president formally apologized to Black

students and alumni for past inequities and published a detailed antiracism plan.

Emphasizing “freedom to explore,” Amherst puts the spotlight on learning and

allows students to focus not on racking up high grade point averages, but rather on

becoming people who base their thinking on a strong foundation in the liberal arts.

“If your education is really your first priority,” says a sophomore, “then I don’t think

there’s a better school.”

Amherst’s 1,000 acres overlook the picturesque town of Amherst and the

Connecticut River Valley and offer a panoramic view of the Holyoke Range and

the Pelham Hills. On campus, a plot of open land housing a wildlife sanctuary and a

forest shares space with academic and residential buildings, athletic fields, and facil-

ities. Amherst looks like a college is supposed to look, with trees and paths winding

through the buildings to offer long, contemplative walks. While Amherst’s predomi-

nant architectural style remains 19th- century academia— red brick is key— everything

from a “pale yellow octagonal structure to a garish, modern dorm” can be found

here. A $242 million makeover of the east side of campus included the construc-

tion of four new residence halls and the 255,000- square- foot, interdisciplinary

Science Center.

Amherst offers a dynamic open curriculum in the traditional academic disci-

plines and in numerous interdisciplinary fields and students choose their program

based on their own individual interests and plans for the future. To graduate, stu-

dents must take a first- year seminar, declare a major at

the end of sophomore year, and satisfy all major program

requirements. First- year seminars, limited to 15 students

and occasionally taught by two or more professors, help

foster interdisciplinary approaches across topics and are offered in several subject

areas. About 45 percent of students choose to undertake a yearlong senior honors

thesis in their major.

The most popular of Amherst’s 41 majors include mathematics, economics, psy-

chology, computer science, and English. About half of the students typically pursue

double majors, and a few overachievers even triple major. Students may create their

own courses of study from Special Topics classes if the subject of their interest is not

available. Amherst’s unique Law, Jurisprudence, and Social Thought program is not a

prelaw major; instead, it’s an interdisciplinary study of the law, drawing on fields as

Website: www .amherst .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,898

Undergraduates: 1,898

Male/Female: 48/52

Financial Aid: 63%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 26%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 14,864

Accepted: 7%

Enrolled: 43%

Grad in 6 Years: 92%

Returning Freshmen: 95%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (413) 542- 2328

Email Address: admission @

amherst .edu

Strong Programs:

Mathematics

Economics

Psychology

Computer Science

English

Law, Jurisprudence, and Social

Thought

“Professors are

wildly intelligent and

very passionate.”

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24 AMHERST COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

diverse as psychology, history, philosophy, and literature, with a strong theoretical

focus. New offerings include a major in education studies. Amherst’s membership in

the Five College Consortium means that students can also take courses from partner

schools Mount Holyoke, UMass Amherst, Smith, and Hampshire—a benefit that

significantly expands students’ options.

The academic climate at Amherst is intense, but on such a small campus, the

classroom environment is supportive and interaction with faculty is encouraged.

Through the Take Your Professor Out program, students receive funding to invite

their professors out for dinner off campus once per semester. “Professors are wildly

intelligent and very passionate,” says an economics and sociology major, “and have

a deep understanding of effective pedagogy and teaching.” Students also praise the

college’s robust career services.

Amherst’s commitment to academic flexibility extends beyond traditional

coursework. Students report that, with no graduate students around, it’s easy to get

involved with faculty research as early as your first semester and many praise the

Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship, which comes with a stipend and hous-

ing for STEM research. The Meiklejohn Fellows program provides summer intern-

ships and research opportunities for low- income and first- generation students. For

those who want to study abroad, there are more than 150 programs in dozens of

countries to choose from; participants are able to apply their financial aid packages

to approved programs. Amherst also has a sister university in Göttingen, Germany,

and another in Kyoto, Japan, where one of the college’s colonial- style buildings has

been duplicated.

“Students at Amherst are passionate, involved, and driven,” says a psychology

major. Only 13 percent of Amherst students hail from Massachusetts, and 11 per-

cent are international. A linguistics major comments, “Amherst is a politically

active campus with the loudest voices being lib-

erals. While other views are not silenced, they

are sometimes drowned out.” The student body

is notably diverse; 14 percent are Asian

American, 16 percent are Hispanic/Latino,

11 percent are Black, and 7 percent are multiracial. As part of its ongoing efforts to

increase diversity, Amherst no longer considers legacy status in admissions— a

practice that gives preference to the children of alumni. Furthermore, admission is

need- blind for all students, and all financial aid is awarded based on need, mean-

ing no merit or athletic scholarships. Amherst guarantees to meet 100 percent of

admitted students’ demonstrated financial need with loan- free financial aid pack-

ages, which has helped attract a substantial number of low- income and Pell- eligible

students.

Housing at Amherst is guaranteed for four years, and 97 percent of students

live on campus. “First- year students live together in seven dorms on the First- Year

Quad, which is really good for community- building,” says a sophomore. Those

who don’t want to take their chances with the room draw can participate in a

lip- synch competition; the winner receives the top room pick for his or her class.

Everyone who lives on campus, and anyone else who wants to, eats in Valentine

Hall, which includes a buffet- style central serving station and five dining rooms.

Much of the produce comes from Book and Plow, the on- campus farm, but stu-

dents give the meals lukewarm reviews. Students agree that the campus feels

safe, and a Black studies major comments, “There is definitely a culture here of

sexual respect, and in instances where that culture is breached, the college takes

swift action.”

Although frats are nothing more than a faint memory, social activities are con-

ducted almost entirely on campus. They range from dorm study breaks to club

Amherst has used

its $3.3 billion

endowment to

become a national

leader in extending

high- quality liberal

arts education to a

diverse student body.

“Amherst is a politically

active campus with the

loudest voices being

liberals.”

Students may

create their own

courses of study

from Special Topics

classes if the subject

of their interest is

not available.

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AMHERST COLLEGE 25

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

events to low- key gatherings. Sports teams host most of the parties, which are gen-

erally open to all students, and a history and computer science major reports, “The

college takes a realistic approach to handling student alcohol use.” The Powerhouse,

a building that originally served as a campus steam plant at the turn of the 20th

century, has been converted into a nightlife venue for live performances, dances,

movie screenings, art exhibits, pub nights, and other special events. Although some

students bemoan a lack of campus traditions, seasonal festivals in the fall, winter,

and spring and Farm Fest are popular. Students also take advantage of the Five

Colleges membership for social life and cultural events.

The town of Amherst is “small but charming,” says a sophomore, with a few

coffee shops, bars, and late- night dining options. The nearby city of Northampton

offers more in the way of restaurants, concerts, and nightlife. Many students take

part in community service projects, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and Habitat for

Humanity, and the college funds roughly 150 summer public service internships

every year. For the many outdoorsy types, good skiing in Vermont is not far, and

Boston (an hour and a half) and New York (a little over three hours) are close enough

to be convenient road- trip destinations.

Sports are taken seriously, both varsity and intramurals; about 30 percent of

the student population participates in varsity athletics, and roughly 80 percent

competes in intramurals. The school has removed its century- old unofficial

mascot, “Lord Jeff” (Lord Jeffery Amherst was a

British general who sought to exterminate

indigenous people), and introduced a new

mascot, the Mammoth. Amherst competes in

Division III, but the strong baseball team takes on Division I opponents as well.

Women’s basketball has won two national championships in recent years, while

men’s basketball, baseball, and cross- country and women’s ice hockey and soccer

have brought home recent New England Small College Athletic Conference titles.

“We have an athletic rivalry with Williams dating back 200 years,” says a senior,

drawing fans from all corners of campus. Amherst students pioneered the devel-

opment of ultimate Frisbee in the mid- 1960s, when players were still using metal

cake pan lids, and the college’s intramural and club programs continue to be well

supported.

In recent years Amherst has become an outspoken proponent— and model— of

the value of diversity and inclusivity for the liberal arts, and these institutional

values are not lost on its students. “It feels very much like home,” remarks a senior.

“People are inquisitive and interesting and ready to share everything they’ve learned

with you.” The lack of restrictive requirements, a cadre of professors who are focused

on teaching, and a devoted alumni network make it clear why most students love

their institution. Says a junior, “The Amherst community goes far beyond your years

on campus.”

Students take

advantage of the Five

Colleges membership

for social life and

cultural events.

“We have an athletic rivalry

with Williams dating back

200 years.”

Overlaps

Williams,

Middlebury, Colby,

Bowdoin, Carleton,

Yale, Brown,

Princeton

If You Apply To ›

Amherst: Early decision, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Please consult Amherst’s website for the most

up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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26 ANTIOCH COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Antioch College

Yellow Springs, OH 45387

Part social activist, part granola, and part anarchist with plenty of none- of- the- above

mixed in, Antioch is a haven for square pegs. After shutting its doors in 2008 for

three years, Antioch returned to offering its signature co- op program: academic

study interspersed with 11- week work experiences. March and protest to change

the world, then get a job. Cool.

Antioch has long been the poster child for the funky diversity that characterizes

U.S. higher education. Since its founding in 1852 by abolitionist and social reformer

Horace Mann, this small liberal arts college in the Ohio boondocks has nurtured

outspoken and socially aware students who thrive under the rigors of refreshingly

nontraditional education. In 1902 Antioch pioneered the concept of co- op edu-

cation, in which students alternate time in the classroom with jobs in the “real

world.” It is one of only 10 Federal Work Study colleges (see also Warren Wilson).

The college was forced to shut its doors in 2008 because of inept management,

but in 2011 it reopened, phoenix- like, thanks to loyal alumni and others unwilling

to allow Antioch’s signature approach to education to become a footnote to history.

As it grapples with inevitable enrollment and financial challenges, Antioch is rely-

ing on a new generation of pioneers— students included— to reinvent the college for

the 21st century.

Antioch is located in the progressive village of Yellow Springs (population 3,700),

which has grown up around the college and become a popular destination for week-

end tourists, thanks to its restaurants, art, and music. The campus is a mixture of

traditional and eco- friendly buildings in various states of repair, including the giant

Main Hall that looks like Hogwarts. The campus includes a working farm and dozens

of geothermal wells, and it abuts the 1,000- acre Glen Helen Nature Preserve that

serves both hikers and science students looking for field experience.

The academic climate is informal and collaborative, with most everyone called

by their first name, but the overall atmosphere is hardly laid- back. “Because we are

on an 11- week quarter system, we do the same amount of work that most people do

in a semester,” explains a psychology major. “Then there’s the workload of helping

to run a new college. That can be very mentally taxing.”

Classes tend to be discussion- based, and take- home tests are common. The fac-

ulty is highly regarded but small, which means that turnover can be a problem. “A

department can go from rock solid to extremely fragile in a matter of weeks,” says a

junior. Antioch’s general education program

includes a core curriculum with distribution

requirements, as well as mandatory courses on

dialogues across difference, race/ethnic studies,

gender/sexuality studies, and a class that prepares students for cooperative educa-

tion. In addition, all students complete a capstone project for which they create and

present original work based upon their self- designed major.

Rather than selecting preset majors, all Antioch students design their own degree

plans, picking and choosing courses from broad areas that suit their academic inter-

ests and needs. A redesigned curriculum launched in spring 2023 offers several areas

of focus, including culture, power and change; global studies and engagement; inter-

disciplinary arts; social innovation; and sustainability and the environment. Students

praise the biomedical and other sciences. “We have well- equipped labs and do a lot of

sustainability projects, such as learning about climate change, recycling, composting,

Website: www .antiochcollege

.edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 127

Undergraduates: 127

Male/Female: 24/76

Financial Aid: 100%

Pell Grant: 79%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 88%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 176

Accepted: 83%

Enrolled: 19%

Grad in 6 Years: 32%

Returning Freshmen: 73%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (937) 319- 6082

Email Address: admission @

antiochcollege .edu

Strong Programs:

Sustainability & the

Environment

Biomedical Science

Global Studies & Engagement

Psychology

Literature

Interdisciplinary Arts &

Creative Practice

“We have well- equipped

labs and do a lot of

sustainability projects.”

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ANTIOCH COLLEGE 27

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and other things that would help save our planet,” says a sophomore. A peer men-

toring program supports first- year and first- generation students, while Early Alert

and First Watch programs ensure that students do not fall through the cracks. Career

and other counseling services are said to be caring but understaffed. Antioch, which

views itself as a laboratory for democracy, is governed by a Community Council.

“Students, staff, and faculty get elected and make important decisions for our school.

Our shared governance is pivotal to Antioch,” says one denizen.

Under Antioch’s flagship co- op program, students engage in full- time coopera-

tive education experiences, generally off campus, for three or four quarters through-

out their time at the college. “By the time you graduate, you have four amazing jobs

on your résumé,” gushes a sophomore. Each student is assigned a co- op advisor to

help with the nearly continuous job hunt, which is eased by Antioch’s extensive

network of alumni. The downside: with students constantly coming and going, it is

sometimes hard to maintain friendships and engage in extracurricular activities.

Antioch has no study abroad program, but about 10 percent of students do co- ops

in foreign countries.

Antioch students tend to be independent spirits. “We’re all self- motivated and

driven,” says a freshman. “We’re weirdos and proud.” The student body is fairly

diverse geographically, with 46 percent coming from out of state, but rural Ohio is

an unlikely destination of choice for many stu-

dents of color, and there are no international stu-

dents. “It’s an adjustment, especially if you’re

coming from a diverse area,” says a junior. Black

students currently make up 20 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos

19 percent, American Indians 1 percent, Asian Americans 1 percent, and multiracial

students 5 percent— but with such a small student body, these figures can shift sig-

nificantly with each incoming class. “Our campus is almost entirely ‘liberal’ with a

mixture of Marxists, Democrats, and Socialists,” claims a student. “There are maybe

two Republicans in the student body.” A huge 79 percent of freshmen are eligible for

Pell Grants. The college offers a handful of merit scholarships, but most financial aid

is need- based.

Antioch operates a single dining facility with an all- or- nothing meal plan— 19

meals a week or cook for yourself— and much of the food is supplied by local farmers

and the student- staffed campus farm. That means, as a junior points out, that “Students

can work on the farm and later eat their work.” Students are required to live on campus

in one of two residence halls or apartments until they are within a year of graduation.

“There is no trouble finding housing,” says a freshman. “Everything is very comfort-

able.” Antioch was the first college to have a Sexual Offense Prevention Policy (SOPP)

mandating verbal consent at every step of a sexual encounter, and entering students

receive SOPP training during orientation. “We were famously mocked for it on SNL,

but the rest of the country has slowly been following along,” notes a political econ-

omy major.

In the absence of Greek organizations, social life tends to be rather low- key.

“There’s hiking, movies, two bars, and plenty of art and music events to attend both

on campus and off,” says a history major. Other diversions include the Camelot

bike ride and quarterly dances before students head off on their co- ops. Dayton

is 30 minutes away, Columbus and Cincinnati one hour. All sports at Antioch are

intramural.

Antioch College is happily back on its feet but showing some growing pains.

“We lose a lot of students due to the stressful environment,” says a junior. “I think

once we understand our institutional personality and promote it, we will have better

retention rates.” For many students, however, Antioch’s search for an updated iden-

tity for the 21st century is part of what makes the place exciting. “Almost every

The academic climate

is informal and

collaborative, with

most everyone called

by their first name.

“Students can work on

the farm and later eat

their work.”

Students engage in

full- time cooperative

education experiences,

generally off

campus, for three

or four quarters

throughout their

time at the college.

Overlaps

Warren Wilson,

Sterling, Prescott,

College of the

Atlantic, St. John’s

College, Allegheny,

Beloit, Agnes Scott,

Ohio State

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28 UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

person here has a different idea of what Antioch needs to be,” observes a psychology

major. “A perk of coming here is that you get to lend your hand in deciding what

that will be.”

If You Apply To ›

Antioch: Early decision I and II, rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supple-

ment. Application includes option to indicate gender identity and preferred pronouns. Art applicants must submit portfolios.

University of Arizona

1200 East University Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85721

Tucson is an increasingly popular academic destination, and not just because of

the scenic mountain views. A large and highly regarded honors college attracts top

students, as do excellent programs in the sciences, arts, engineering, and business.

Generally viewed as a cut above ASU in academic quality. Offers generous merit

scholarships to eligible out- of- staters. Bring plenty of shorts and sunscreen.

With a campus that’s encircled by mountain ranges and the beautiful Sonoran

Desert, lined with palm trees, and set against a backdrop of stunning Tucson sun-

sets, it’s no surprise that students at the University of Arizona love to hang out at

the Mall. Not the shopping center, mind you— but a huge grassy area in the middle

of campus where 39,000 Wildcats gather between classes. Despite its size, students

are quick to point out that Arizona has a strong sense of community. “On an aver-

age day, people are having picnics, walking their dogs, playing games, tanning, etc.,

on the Mall,” says a senior. With all the natural beauty that surrounds them, many

Wildcats simply purr through four satisfying years.

Architecturally, Arizona’s campus distinguishes itself from the city’s regiment of

adobe buildings with a design that seems a study in the versatility of red brick. Old

Main, the university’s first building, is into its second century, but it has plenty of

modern neighbors, including high- tech science facilities, such as the new $85 mil-

lion Applied Research Building that houses a thermal vacuum chamber, an echo- free

room, and more. Eager shutterbugs can pore through photographer Ansel Adams’s

personal collection at the first- rate Center for Creative Photography. The campus

offers three state- of- the- art recreation centers, and the Student Success District cen-

tralizes health and wellness, tutoring, and academic advising services, in addition to

providing access to library and technology resources like 3- D printers.

Arizona’s general education curriculum incorporates opportunities for students

to engage in interdisciplinary learning, showcase their work in e-portfolios, and

reflect on their experiences. In addition to a first- year writing requirement and a

one- credit general education capstone course, students complete coursework that

focuses on different Perspectives (Artist, Humanist, Natural Scientist, and Social

Scientist) and Attributes (Diversity and Equity, Quantitative Reasoning, World

Cultures and Societies, and Writing).

Arizona, whose origins date to 1885, has 20 colleges and hundreds of undergrad-

uate majors. Sciences are the school’s forte— the astronomy department is among

the nation’s best. Students have access to leading astronomers, including those who

have created instruments to help NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope peer deep

into the universe. The small but rigorous College of Architecture, Planning, and

Website: www .arizona .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 37,175

Undergraduates: 30,294

Male/Female: 43/57

Financial Aid: 87%

Pell Grant: 26%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 41%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 48,202

Accepted: 87%

Enrolled: 20%

Grad in 6 Years: 68%

Returning Freshmen: 86%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (520) 621- 3237

Email Address: admissions @

arizona .edu

Strong Programs:

Astronomy

Psychology

Biomedical Engineering

Management Information

Systems

Legal Professions and Studies

Entrepreneurship

Business Management

Speech Communication and

Rhetoric

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UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA 29

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Landscape Architecture is a national leader in sustainable planning for arid regions.

Programs in management information systems, psychology, law, hydrology and

atmospheric sciences, and physiology are particularly well regarded, and the English

and history departments are also standouts. The university also offers the first B.A.

degree in law in the country.

“The academic climate is challenging but rewards student initiative and hard

work,” comments a history major. Some first- year courses are taught by graduate

students, and 33 percent of all classes enroll fewer than 20 students. “Most of my

professors are very well versed in their fields and continue to do research,” says one

student. Students also praise the THINK TANK tutoring program that operates out of

several academic buildings and residence halls for academic support.

Arizona’s Student Engagement and Career Development office connects stu-

dents with real- world learning experiences, whether through courses that involve

experiential learning components or through out- of- classroom opportunities like

internships and fieldwork. “The U of A is very

strong in research, and they have specific pro-

grams to help undergrads get involved,” reports

a senior. Career educators in the LifeLab assist

students with career planning. The W.A. Franke

Honors College offers one of the nation’s largest and most selective honors pro-

grams, serving more than 3,900 students. In addition to offering a variety of honors

courses, the college features smaller classes, personalized advising, and the Honors

Village living/learning community. For those seeking new vistas, there are study

abroad programs available in more than 60 countries.

“The energy is so high all of the time,” says a senior of the campus tenor. “It

is a very loud, rowdy bunch of extremely passionate people.” Out- of- staters con-

stitute 37 percent of the undergraduate student body; another 4 percent hail

from foreign countries. Hispanics/Latinos account for 28 percent, Black students

8 percent, Asian Americans 11 percent, and multiracial students 5 percent. A

diversity action council, a student minority advisory committee, and cultural

resource centers help promote positive race relations and several students praise

the campus’s diversity. There is a mix of political views, and one senior shares,

“Our student body government is an amazing group of students who care about

allowing everyone to share their voice and are determined to bring this campus

together.” Merit scholarships averaging $11,300 and hundreds of additional

scholarships are available to eligible students; out- of- staters with decent GPAs

enjoy more generous merit scholarships here than at some of Arizona’s biggest

competitors. Arizona guarantees that incoming students’ tuition and fees won’t

increase for four years. In addition, through a new Arizona Native Scholars Grant,

the university covers all fees for Native Arizona resident undergraduates seeking

their first bachelor’s degree.

A junior says the quality of Arizona’s 23 residence halls is “all over the board,”

but all are generally well maintained: “The U of A gives students the option to live

in communities based on religious affiliation, major, nationality, or anything else

that student asks,” reports a senior. Only 22 per-

cent of undergraduates live in the dorms; some

first- years and most older students flock to the

abundant and less expensive apartments near

the school. Several restaurants are located in the

student union food court and sprinkled around campus, but many students express

a desire for more traditional dining halls and healthy choices. In regards to the

national issue of campus sexual assault, a sophomore says that the university

“emphasizes consent” and that “students seem to take the issue seriously.”

The new $85 million

Applied Research

Building houses a

thermal vacuum

chamber and an

echo- free room.

“On an average day, people

are having picnics, walking

their dogs, playing games,

tanning, etc., on the Mall.”

Sciences are the

school’s forte— the

astronomy department

is among the

nation’s best.

“Students get way more

than a degree out of

attending the University

of Arizona.”

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30 ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Despite the high percentage of off- campus residents, students stream back

to campus on weekends for parties, sports, cultural events, and other activities

organized by more than 400 student clubs and organizations. Four percent of

the men belong to fraternities, and 8 percent of the women join sororities; stu-

dents say Greek groups have an outsize influence on the social scene. The

campus is technically alcohol- free, though some question whether the frats

have realized that yet. Homecoming, with its Homecoming Olympics competi-

tion between student orgs on the Mall and its massive bonfire, is always a crowd-

pleaser. “Dusk music festival is a must- go,” adds one senior. On Reading Day,

the day before final exams begin, the university offers free snacks and stress-

relieving activities like yoga, meditation, and

coloring. “What makes Arizona special is prob-

ably Tucson, because we have a unique desert

climate, beautiful views, and Tucson itself has

amazing food and culture,” says a journalism

major. Students enjoy the city’s shops, restaurants, bars, and various dance

clubs, not to mention easy access to hiking and other outdoor activities. Phoenix

is less than two hours away.

The university is home to 500 athletes who, as of 2024, compete in 18 sports in

Division I of the Big 12 Conference. The Wildcats men’s basketball, baseball, and

golf teams have won conference titles in the last few years, and women’s golf, bas-

ketball, and softball are competitive too. Football and basketball enjoy national

prominence and provide great weekend entertainment, especially when the oppos-

ing team is big- time rival Arizona State. As one Wildcat points out, “Every time we

play against ASU in any sport, there are T-shirts, stickers, and people asking, ‘A-S-

who?’” Arizona’s battle cry, “Bear Down!”— frequently heard at sporting events— dates

back to 1926, when a campus football hero, fatally injured in a car crash, whispered

his last message to his teammates: “Tell them, tell the team to bear down.” Nearly

100 years later, the enigmatic slogan still appears all over campus.

The University of Arizona offers a wide variety of academic options along with

spectacular weather. “Everyone just seems happy and blessed to have the opportu-

nity to come to this amazing place,” says a senior. And with so many out- of- this-

world programs on offer, as another student shares, “Students get way more than a

degree out of attending the University of Arizona.”

“The U of A is very strong

in research, and they have

specific programs to help

undergrads get involved.”

The university is

home to 500 athletes

who compete in

18 sports as a member

of the Division I

Big 12 Conference.

Overlaps

CU Boulder, Grand

Canyon University,

San Diego State,

Indiana University,

University of

Washington,

Arizona State,

Northern Arizona,

University of

Oregon

If You Apply To ›

Arizona: Rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Arizona State University

Box 870112, Tempe, AZ 85287

ASU is the largest university in the nation— with ambitions to grow even larger,

enhance interdisciplinary applied research, and increase socioeconomic diversity.

Location in the metro Phoenix area attracts plenty of out- of- staters who like the idea

of seeing the sun every day. Administration’s emphasis on offering an education

to anyone who wants one and is qualified to succeed makes the professional

schools and Barrett, The Honors College, the best bets. Strong student support

services.

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ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY 31

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

With a history that dates to 1885, Arizona State University has transformed itself

over the last decade into the nation’s largest public university. With no pretense of

modesty, this mega- university, situated in a desert oasis that is one of the nation’s

fastest- growing metro areas, describes itself as the model for a New American

University— one where “massive innovation” is the norm and where an interdis-

ciplinary culture is seen as the best means of developing “world- changing ideas.”

ASU’s stated goal is to serve any Arizona student qualified for college- level work

and, in the process, it has become a national model of how to navigate the emerg-

ing demographics of U.S. higher education. Research spending is up, as are student

retention and graduation rates. Not surprisingly, ASU can seem fast- paced at times,

but, says a biomedical sciences major, “ASU really stresses the ideas of working

together in order to get more perspectives to make differences we as students want

to see.”

The most populous of ASU’s four locations, the Tempe campus offers a beautiful

blend of palm- lined walkways and contemporary urban architecture. It is home to

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, business, art and design, and engineering

programs. Fifteen minutes by light rail brings

you to the Downtown Phoenix campus, which

looks like it sounds. It houses journalism, nurs-

ing, public service, and law programs and has a

young professionals feel. The Polytechnic campus,

a converted Air Force base, specializes in science and technology and boasts a desert

arboretum, while West campus has the feel of a liberal arts learning community, with

a large central lawn and a focus on interdisciplinary, collaborative studies. Each of the

four campuses has a Pat Tillman Veterans Center, which brings together academic and

student support services that serve the university’s continually growing enrollment

of veterans and their dependents. In addition, the ASU Local program allows students

to pursue hybrid degrees, taking online courses and participating in hands- on

learning experiences two days a week at satellite locations in Los Angeles and

Washington, D.C.

The academic star at ASU is Barrett, The Honors College, a selective school-

within- a- school living and learning community that is home to more than 7,000

students from every school and college across all four campuses. Most of these den-

izens reside in a cloistered complex on the Tempe campus that was designed by

students, faculty, and staff working with nationally renowned architects. It features

multiuse classrooms and meeting spaces, a dining hall, a fitness center, numerous

outdoor courtyards, and a central amphitheater. The nation’s first four- year resi-

dential honors college within a major public university, Barrett has more than

40 dedicated faculty members who oversee students’ ambitious honors projects. “It

doubles the resources and opportunities available to students,” raves an environ-

mental design major.

ASU has 14 undergraduate schools and more than 400 undergraduate degree

programs. Regardless of major, all students must fulfill distribution requirements

that include courses in three awareness areas: global, historical, and U.S. cultural

diversity. The most popular majors are in business and management, engineering,

and biological and biomedical sciences. The School of Sustainability, part of the

College of Global Futures, emphasizes the study of land use and planning models

that minimize environmental harm. The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and

Mass Communication enjoys state- of- the- art facilities and a strong national reputa-

tion, while the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts features nationally recog-

nized majors in architecture, art, design, music, dance, and the Sidney Poitier New

American Film School. The sciences (including biochemistry, chemistry, geology,

and biology) and social sciences boast first- class facilities, notably the largest

Website: www .asu .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 71,147

Undergraduates: 59,765

Male/Female: 50/50

Financial Aid: 88%

Pell Grant: 29%

Expense: Pub $ $

Student Loans: 41%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 68,789

Accepted: 90%

Enrolled: 25%

Grad in 6 Years: 69%

Returning Freshmen: 85%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (480) 965- 7788

Email Address: admissions @

asu .edu

Strong Programs:

Journalism

Architecture

Art

Design

Performing Arts

Education

Engineering

Business

Health Professions

“ASU really stresses the

ideas of working together

in order to get more

perspectives.”

The ASU Local

program allows

students to pursue

hybrid degrees,

taking online courses

and participating in

hands- on learning

experiences two

days a week.

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32 ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

university- owned meteorite collection in the world. All students can participate in

Dreamscape Learn, a new virtual- reality experience that teaches students by putting

them in the middle of a story. The School of Earth and Space Exploration is a leading

center for research in astronomy and astrophysics. Anthropology benefits from its

association with the Institute of Human Origins’s Donald Johanson, who discovered

the 3.2- million- year- old fossil skeleton named Lucy. ASU also offers the largest

teacher preparation program of any American university.

Engineering programs, especially microelectronics, robotics, and computer-

assisted manufacturing, are sure bets; the facility for high- resolution microscopy

allows students to get a uniquely close- up view of atomic structures. The Fulton

Schools of Engineering, composed of seven discipline- specific schools, offers a tradi-

tional engineering education with an emphasis on designing and creating innova-

tive and entrepreneurial solutions. Future engineers can opt for a B.S. degree or,

for those with broader interests, a B.A. The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering

eProjects program brings students, faculty, and industry together to find solutions

to real- world problems.

Faculty members are expected to do both teaching and research, preferably with

a practical emphasis. As one administrator explains, “We don’t do 30- year longitu-

dinal studies.” And while, according to a geological sciences major, many professors

are “excited and passionate about what they do,” a

junior warns, “due to large class sizes, [it is] harder to

know them personally.” Forty percent of under-

graduate classes have fewer than 20 students, and

one senior says the academic climate is “mostly

relaxed, but focused.” The university has made seri-

ous efforts to provide students with strong support services. The First- Year Success

Center connects new students with upperclassmen and graduate students for weekly

coaching sessions on topics like time management, finances, and health and well-

ness. Incoming freshmen who are undecided on a major participate in the Major

and Career Exploration program, which involves seven- week courses offering oppor-

tunities for hands- on career exploration. ASU has drawn national attention for its

innovative and patented eAdvisor system that keeps students on track to meet

degree requirements and is backed up by a corps of full- time professional advisors.

The 5 percent of students who study abroad have access to more than 300 programs

in some 65 countries worldwide.

“Sun Devils buckle down and focus on what needs to get done,” says a senior.

“We love to have fun, but we also love to succeed.” Sixty- five percent of ASU stu-

dents are Arizona residents, while 7 percent come from abroad. Twenty- six percent

of the undergraduate student body is Hispanic/Latino; Black students contribute

4 percent, Asian Americans 9 percent, and multiracial students 5 percent. Students

here can be divided in their politics, but a senior says, “we have free- speech zones

where people can share ideas.” ASU offers merit scholarships averaging $9,600 to

qualified students and awards more than 410 athletic scholarships annually to ath-

letes in 24 sports. It also guarantees to meet the demonstrated need of any student

from Arizona and now covers the full tuition costs for Pell- eligible students.

Twenty- four percent of ASU students live in the co- ed dorms. “Our dorms are so

nice! I’ve visited several other schools, and ASU has some of the largest rooms,” says

one junior. Gender-inclusive housing is now

offered. Students don’t have to buy a meal plan,

no matter where they live, and they praise the

variety of options. Some complain about the campus’s “walk- only zones” that pre-

vent students from using bikes (of which there are thousands), skateboards, or other

modes of transportation in certain high- traffic areas. Students say campus security is

The Ira A. Fulton

Schools of Engineering

eProjects program

brings students,

faculty, and industry

together to find

solutions to real-

world problems.

“[Barrett, The Honors

College] doubles

the resources and

opportunities available

to students.”

Devils in Disguise,

an annual, student-

run day of service,

sends students out

to complete various

volunteer projects

in the community.

“ASU has an incredible

amount of school spirit.”

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UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS 33

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

sufficient, and the Devils in the Bedroom student group helps promote awareness

regarding sexual assault prevention.

“Sometimes I feel there is so much stuff going on that I have to pick between

two or three things on a day or night or weekend,” says one junior. “But, hey, that’s

a good problem to have!” ASU’s Greek system attracts 8 percent of the men and

10 percent of the women, and “small kick- backs

in dorms are just as common as huge house par-

ties,” says a sophomore. The campus is officially

dry, so many students head off campus on

weekends— often far off campus. Those with cars

have easy access to the mountains of Northern

Arizona, the lakes on the outskirts of town, and the natural beauty of the Grand

Canyon. “Tempe itself has a lot of available activities, such as paddle boarding,

attending a Broadway touring show, fine dining, and night life,” enthuses a senior.

Devils in Disguise, an annual, student- run day of service, sends students out to com-

plete various volunteer projects in the community.

“ASU has an incredible amount of school spirit,” says a junior. Arizona State’s

Division I athletics department— supported by a fee required of all students in

exchange for free access to athletic events— is consistently ranked among the

nation’s best. As of 2024 ASU is competing in the Big 12 Conference. Women’s

triathlon has won multiple national championships in recent years. Softball was

a recent conference winner, and football, men’s wrestling, men’s swimming and

diving, and women’s golf are also highly competitive. Teams are known as the Sun

Devils after a meteorological phenomenon, and the biggest rival is the University

of Arizona, normally referred to simply as “that school down south.” The first- rate

Sun Devil Fitness Complex hosts dozens of intramurals and the huge club sports

program, which boasts more than 50 club teams.

Arizona State may seem like an overwhelmingly big school with a reputation for

rowdiness, but that’s not the full story. “What characterizes ASU is the ability to be

involved in so many different communities,” says a senior, “to be exposed to such

diversity that is only found on a large university campus.” To its credit, ASU likes to

pride itself on how many students it accepts, not how many it turns away, and on

its strong student support services. For those not intimidated by its sheer immensity,

ASU may be a good place to earn a degree while enjoying a four- year relationship

with the sun.

“Tempe itself has a lot of

available activities, such as

paddle boarding, attending

a Broadway touring show,

fine dining, and night life.”

Overlaps

UCLA, Michigan

State, University

of Minnesota, Ohio

State, UT Austin,

University of

Arizona, Northern

Arizona, San Diego

State

If You Apply To ›

Arizona State: Rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

University of Arkansas

200 Hunt Hall, Fayetteville, AR 72701

University of Arkansas occupies the second tier of Southern public universities

alongside Alabama, LSU, and Ole Miss. Though somewhat conservative by national

standards, Fayetteville is a relatively progressive Arkansas city. With traditional roots

in agriculture, aided by Walton family largesse, U of A has also developed strong

programs in business, engineering, architecture, and other professional fields. Its

most popular program takes the field on Saturday afternoons in the fall.

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34 UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The flagship public institution for the state of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas

is a nationally competitive, student- centered research institution. Freshman class

enrollment has increased by more than 55 percent in the last 10 years, and the uni-

versity has grown to keep pace. A $300 million cash gift from the family of Walmart

founder Sam Walton created the undergraduate Honors College and endowed the

graduate school. More recently, Walton philanthropy has funded the School of Art

and the Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research.

The Arkansas campus is nestled among the mountains, lakes, and streams

in the northwest corner of the state. “Come to a Razorback game in the fall when

the leaves are changing,” says one student, “and you will be totally won over.” The

community is friendly and safe, and the moderate climate means recreational

opportunities abound in all seasons. Architectural styles range from modern con-

crete to collegiate Gothic buildings constructed during the Depression. The center of

campus is the stately brick Old Main, dating to 1875, which once housed the entire

university. New facilities include a 70,000- square- foot academic and career support

center and a 154,000-square- foot studio and design center.

Established as a land grant institution in 1871, with agricultural and mechani-

cal roots, U of A serves 23,395 undergraduates and includes 10 colleges, as well as

more than 50 research and outreach centers. U of A’s core requirements include

credits in English, history, math, humanities,

fine arts, science, and social sciences. The more

than 3,800 undergrads who join the Honors

College complete research or creative work cul-

minating in an honors thesis. “Do it if you can,”

raves a freshman. “You get first pick on classes,

more scholarships to go abroad, and first pick on housing.” The Sam M. Walton

College of Business offers three of the strongest and most popular majors on

campus: marketing, finance, and supply chain management. The college’s recently

formed strategy, entrepreneurship, and venture innovation department launched

its first major in 2021. Other popular disciplines include nursing, industrial engi-

neering, communication sciences and disorders, English (particularly creative writ-

ing), and studio art. The Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food, and Life Sciences is

home to the Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, a national leader in research

on poultry epidemiology. The Jones School of Architecture and Design’s architec-

ture program is also notable.

U of A’s academic climate is “laid- back, but still demanding a high standard

of excellence,” says a senior. To help ease into the college transition, students rec-

ommend ROCK Camp, an optional summer orientation weekend, as well as the

tutoring services of the Harrington Center for Success. “We have lots of accessible

resources and engaging and involved faculty and staff,” cheers a communication

major. While there is a healthy portion of large lecture classes taught by teaching

assistants, 40 percent of classes enroll fewer than 20 students. Undergraduates in all

disciplines are encouraged to conduct research, and 37 percent do so, often with

generous funding. “Getting involved in campus research is very easy and often just

requires talking to an enthusiastic professor with room in their lab,” says a biol-

ogy major. The university sponsors study abroad programs in nearly 30 countries

across six continents, including its flagship Rome Center and roughly 40 short- term,

faculty- led programs; 12 percent of students participate.

Forty- nine percent of undergraduates are Arkansas residents, with Texans repre-

senting the next largest contingent at 31 percent; 1 percent are international. Black

students make up just 4 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 11 percent,

Asian Americans 3 percent, and multiracial students 5 percent. One student says the

political climate leans Republican, but a variety of political views are visible on

Website: www .uark .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 25,144

Undergraduates: 23,395

Male/Female: 45/55

Financial Aid: 36%

Pell Grant: 17%

Expense: Pub $

Student Loans: 47%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 26,210

Accepted: 79%

Enrolled: 34%

Grad in 6 Years: 69%

Returning Freshmen: 86%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (479) 575- 5346

Email Address: uofa @ uark .edu

Strong Programs:

Marketing

Finance

Supply Chain Management

Architecture

Nursing

Industrial Engineering

Communication Sciences and

Disorders

Creative Writing

“Getting involved in campus

research is very easy

and often just requires

talking to an enthusiastic

professor.”

New facilities include

a 70,000- square- foot

academic and career

support center and

a 154,000-square-

foot studio and

design center.

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UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS 35

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

campus. “There are women’s marches and people asking you to sign petitions to

legalize weed,” observes a biology major. Arkansas awards thousands of merit schol-

arships each year, averaging $5,400, as well as roughly 400 athletic scholarships in

19 varsity sports. The New Arkansan Non- Resident Tuition Award gives scholarships

to incoming students from neighboring states who meet certain academic require-

ments, but the largest increases in scholarship funding are designated for students

from Arkansas.

Twenty- nine percent of all undergrads at Arkansas live in the residence halls;

most move to Greek houses or other off- campus digs after their first year. About 150

students participate in six living/learning community options. A unique “Adopt- a-

Prof” program places designated faculty members in residence halls to spend time

interacting informally with students. Campus dining is described as “fine.” Campus

police are said to be effective, and they have a presence at Greek parties. A senior

reports, “The Title IX office has stepped up and improved procedures and outreach”

related to the issue of campus sexual assault.

Arkansas’s Greek chapters attract 26 percent of the men and 39 percent of the

women, and Greek parties “set the tone for sure,” says a pre- nursing student, aside

from the revelry that accompanies Razorback athletics. School- sponsored Cardinal

Nights offer alternative programming on Fridays,

and students look forward to the annual Spring-

time of Youth music festival. Dickson Street, the

core entertainment district in the town of Fayette-

ville (population 95,000), is full of restaurants and

bars that are popular with upperclassmen. “We have a very outdoorsy culture because

we’re surrounded by mountains and rivers,” explains a horticulture major. “So week-

ends are filled with hiking and camping.” Students are also big on community service,

especially through programs like Gearhart Full Circle Food Pantry, Dream B.I.G.

Believing in Girls, and Make a Difference Day. Those with cars will find Dallas, Tulsa,

Oklahoma City, Memphis, and St. Louis all within a six- hour drive.

The Razorbacks (wild hogs) compete in the Southeastern Conference, and the

beloved Hog Call “Wooo! Pig sooie!” rings out during football and basketball week-

ends, although according to one senior, “No matter the time, place, or situation,

it is always considered appropriate to call the hogs.” Red Razorback logos are all

over town— on T-shirts, napkins, book covers, license plates, and on game day, the

cheeks of ecstatic fans. Other powerhouse teams include baseball, softball, track and

field, golf, and women’s soccer and gymnastics. Recreational sports— everything

from flag football and sand volleyball to ballroom dance and bass fishing— are

hugely popular.

At the University of Arkansas, Southern hospitality means poultry science stu-

dents aren’t the only ones flocking to the state for a solid education at a bargain

price. Northerners may feel outnumbered, and those who frown on football should

keep their feelings to themselves. But all students here look forward to graduation

day, when their names will join those of more than 210,000 other alumni, engraved

into the nearly four- mile network of sidewalks on campus.

A unique “Adopt- a-

Prof” program places

designated faculty

members in residence

halls to spend time

interacting informally

with students.

“No matter the time, place,

or situation, it is always

considered appropriate to

call the hogs.”

Overlaps

University of

Oklahoma,

Louisiana State,

University

of Missouri,

University of

Nebraska– Lincoln,

Iowa State,

University of

Alabama, Texas

A&M, Texas Tech

If You Apply To ›

Arkansas: Early action, rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult Arkansas’s

website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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36 ATLANTA UNIVERSITY CENTER

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Atlanta University Center

Atlanta is viewed as the preeminent city in the country for bright, talented, and successful Black people. It became

the capital of the civil rights movement in the 1960s— a town described by its leaders as “too busy to hate.” Atlanta

evolved in the 1970s to become known as the “Black mecca of the South,” it economically burgeoned to “Olympic

City” in the 1990s, and it currently reigns as the hub of Black Hollywood.

At the heart of this storied culture is the Atlanta University Center (AUC), the largest African American educa-

tional complex in the world. The center consists of two undergraduate colleges (Morehouse and Spelman) as well

as two that offer graduate degrees (Clark Atlanta University and the Morehouse School of Medicine) on adjoining

campuses in the center of Atlanta, three miles from downtown. Two other institutions, Morris Brown College and

the Interdenominational Theological Center, are no longer members. Students at the affiliated schools can enjoy

the quiet pace of their beautiful magnolia- studded campuses or plunge into all the culture and excitement of this

most dynamic of Deep South cities.

AUC, serving 10,000 students, is home to a myriad of unique offerings, including Spelman’s Innovation

Lab; Morehouse’s cinema, television, and emerging media studies major; Clark Atlanta University’s Center for

Innovation and Entrepreneurial Development; and Morehouse School of Medicine’s Satcher Health Leadership

Institute. The four component institutions have educated numerous generations of Black leaders. The Reverend

Martin Luther King Jr. graduated from Morehouse, while his grandmother, mother, sister, and daughter all attended

Spelman. Both schools gained national reputations at a time when they were among the best of the few colleges to

which talented Black students could aspire. Even now, when the options are almost limitless, alumni continue to

send their children back for more.

The six original schools— all but the medical school— became affiliated in 1929 using the model of California’s

Claremont Colleges, but the remaining members are fiercely independent. Each has its own administration, board

of trustees, and academic specialties, and each maintains its own dorms, cafeterias, and other facilities. There is

cross- registration among the institutions (Morehouse students, for example, go to Spelman for drama and art

courses) as well as with Georgia State and Emory University. The governing body of the consortium, the Atlanta

University Center, Inc., administers a centerwide dual- degree program in engineering in conjunction with Georgia

Tech, and it runs campus security, a student crisis center, and a joint institute of science research. There is also a

centerwide service of career planning and placement, where recruiters may come and interview students from all

four institutions.

Dating and social life at the coeducational institutions tend to take place within the individual schools, though

Morehouse, a men’s college, and Spelman, a women’s college, maintain a close academic and social relationship.

The Morehouse– Spelman Glee Club takes its abundance of talent around the nation, and its annual Christmas

concert on the Spelman campus is a standing- room- only event.

Morehouse and Spelman (see full write- ups) constitute the Ivy League of historically Black colleges and univer-

sities (HBCUs). The following is a sketch of the other institution within the AUC system offering undergraduate

degrees, Clark Atlanta University.

CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY (WWW .CAU .EDU)

Formed by the consolidation of Clark College, a four- year liberal arts institution, and Atlanta University, which

offered only graduate degrees, CAU is a comprehensive coeducational institution that offers undergraduate, grad-

uate, and professional degrees as well as nondegree certificate programs. The university draws on the former

strengths of both schools, offering quality programs in the health professions, public policy, and mass communi-

cations (including print journalism, radio and television production, and filmmaking). Graduate and professional

programs include education, business, library information studies, social work, and arts and sciences. CAU is the

only private, independent graduate research institution in the HBCU community, and the only HBCU member of

the Georgia Research Alliance. The university enrolls 3,300 full- time undergraduates; about two- thirds come from

out of state, and 76 percent are women.

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MOREHOUSE COLLEGE 37

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Morehouse College

830 Westview Drive SW, Atlanta, GA 30314

Along with sister school Spelman, Morehouse is the most prestigious of the

historically Black schools. Alumni list reads like a Who’s Who of Black leaders. Best

known for business and popular 3– 2 engineering program with Georgia Tech. Built

on a Civil War battlefield, Morehouse epitomizes the new South. “Morehouse Men”

share a special bond.

Founded in 1867, Morehouse College has the distinction of being the nation’s

only historically Black, four- year liberal arts college for men. Top students come to

Morehouse because they want an institution with a strong academic program and

a culture that focuses equally on developing global leaders and fostering a sense of

brotherhood among students. Notable alumni include the Reverend Martin Luther

King Jr., Senator Raphael Warnock, Samuel L. Jackson, and Spike Lee. Says a psy-

chology major, “Morehouse is a college of young, assertive, ambitious Black men.”

Located near downtown Atlanta, the Morehouse campus was built on 66 acres

that were once a Civil War battlefield. The campus is home to 42 buildings, many

of them historic, including the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel. The

college has continued to evolve over the last decade, as it has enriched its academic

program, conducted a successful national fund- raising campaign, increased student

scholarships and faculty salaries, and improved its physical plant.

Morehouse’s general education program includes not only coursework in four

major disciplines (humanities, natural sciences, math, and social sciences), but also

the study of “the unique African and African American heritage on which so much

of our modern American culture is built.” A cornerstone of that study is a scheduled

series of campuswide assemblies called the Crown Forum, which brings in community

leaders and national figures from an array of industries for special presentations, artistic

performances, and dialogues on topical issues. Students must attend at least six Crown

Forum events per semester for six semesters to graduate. The academic climate at the

House can get intense: “Morehouse offers an academic structure that is both compet-

itive and rigorous,” states a freshman. Fifty- six percent of the classes have fewer than

20 students, and students say their classmates strive to be the best in the classroom but

take time to support each other too. A sense of mentorship pervades the campus, and

students consider the school’s full breadth of counseling services to be quite strong.

Undergraduate programs include the traditional liberal arts majors in the human-

ities and social and natural sciences, but as a rule of thumb, the more preprofessional

your plan, the better Morehouse fits. While STEM fields have been traditionally strong

at Morehouse, business and economics have

risen in prominence, and business administration

is now the most popular major. Engineering,

another popular choice, is actually a 3– 2 program

in conjunction with Georgia Tech and other larger universities. Many students major

in economics, biology, English, and political science. The cinema, television, and

emerging media studies major is growing, and a major in Chinese studies is available.

Notable minors include journalism and sports, sustainability, and neuroscience.

Programs that receive less favorable reviews from students are art and drama, and the

administration admits that some of the humanities offerings could use strengthening.

A four- year honors program is available for the highly motivated, and research oppor-

tunities in the sciences abound, including a research partnership with NASA. Thirty-

one percent of students study abroad in more than 200 programs worldwide.

Website: www .morehouse .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,183

Undergraduates: 2,183

Male/Female: 100/0

Financial Aid: 83%

Pell Grant: 56%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 80%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 5,221

Accepted: 60%

Enrolled: 22%

Grad in 6 Years: 59%

Returning Freshmen: 80%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (844) 512- 6672

Email Address: admissions @

morehouse .edu

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Economics

Biology

English

Political Science

Cinema, Television, and

Emerging Media Studies

Chinese Studies

Pre- engineering

“Morehouse is a college of

young, assertive, ambitious

Black men.”

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38 MOREHOUSE COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Seventy- one percent of Morehouse students come from outside the state, with the

majority hailing from Southeast and Mid- Atlantic states; less than 1 percent come

from other nations. Ninety- eight percent are Black, and one student attests, “Many

students are here to get a greater understanding of their heritage and to promote it.”

Fifty- six percent of incoming freshmen are eligible for Pell Grants. Merit scholarships

averaging $12,600 are available, in addition to many scholarships for athletes.

Morehouse now accepts transgender students who self- identify as male; however,

enrolled students who transition to self- identifying as females would be asked to leave

because, as administrators explain, being a men’s college is central to Morehouse’s

identity. Morehouse has come under fire in recent years over how it has handled alle-

gations of sexual misconduct and accusations of a “hypermasculine” culture.

Students are required to live on campus for their first three years; seniors find

their own off- campus accommodations. Some students grumble that campus hous-

ing is “too small” and “not well maintained.” For freshmen, students recommend

Graves Hall, the college’s oldest building, con-

structed in 1889. Themed residential academic

programs are available for students interested in

the arts, business, global learning, and STEM.

The meal plan at Morehouse is mandatory for

students living on campus and draws its share of complaints as well, although dining

services have expanded recently to include fast- food options and a coffee shop.

Morehouse’s membership in the Atlanta University Center expands students’

academic, social, and extracurricular options, particularly with neighboring Spelman

College. Homecoming week, for instance, is a joint effort with Spelman and is one of the

nation’s largest at a historically Black college or university (HBCU), with events like pep

rallies, hip- hop and R&B concerts, step shows, and a jazz brunch drawing thousands of

alumni and community members. Spelman women have been known to quip, “You

can always tell a Morehouse man, but you can’t tell him much.” Morehouse’s four

fraternities, which sign up just a small fraction of the students, hold parties, though

most students concur that “drinking is not a big deal here.” Community service is an

important emphasis, through student organizations as well as service- learning courses.

Going out on the town in Atlanta is a popular evening activity, and on- campus foot-

ball games, concerts, movies, and religious programs all draw crowds.

In its early years, Morehouse left much to be desired in the area of varsity sports,

but the Maroon Tigers now compete well in the Division II Southern Intercollegiate

Athletic Conference. The basketball and track and field teams have enjoyed the most

success, but it is the intramural program that allows students a chance to become the

superstars they know are lurking within them. During football season, students road-

trip to follow the games at Howard, Hampton, and Tuskegee universities.

Benefiting as it is from the recent surge of interest in HBCUs, Morehouse is well

equipped to serve the contemporary heirs of a distinguished tradition. Morehouse

students don’t just attend Morehouse. They become part of a prominent and proud

network of Morehouse Men who share the bonds of having had the Morehouse

experience. Graduates find that alumni stand ready and willing to help them with

jobs and other opportunities as they work to effect positive change in their commu-

nities and the world.

Research

opportunities

in the sciences

abound, including a

research partnership

with NASA.

“Many students are here to

get a greater understanding

of their heritage and to

promote it.”

Themed residential

academic programs

are available for

students interested

in the arts, business,

global learning,

and STEM.

Overlaps

Spelman, Howard,

Davidson, Furman,

Millsaps, Rhodes,

Georgia State,

Florida A&M

If You Apply To ›

Morehouse: Early decision, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: required. Accepts the Common Application.

Accepts applications from students who live and self- identify as male.

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SPELMAN COLLEGE 39

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Spelman College

350 Spelman Lane SW, Atlanta, GA 30314

With a strong tradition of academic excellence, Spelman is a historically Black

women’s college that draws students from all corners of the country. Particularly

strong in the sciences with noteworthy emphasis on undergraduate research.

Wooded 42- acre Atlanta campus adjacent to brother school Morehouse offers

easy access to urban attractions. Has dropped varsity sports to emphasize lifelong

physical fitness.

As one of only two surviving Black women’s colleges in the United States (along

with Bennett), Spelman College holds a special appeal for Black women seeking to

become leaders in fields ranging from science to the arts. Students flock here for that

something special that predominantly white institutions lack: a supportive environ-

ment with first- rate academics and a tight- knit sisterhood where Black women can

develop self- confidence and leadership skills before venturing out into the wider

world— exactly the reasons for the current national resurgence of interest in histor-

ically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). “It’s a true sisterhood,” enthuses a

psychology major. “The bonds are everlasting. There is no one on this planet who

will know what you’re going through except for your Spelman sisters.”

Spelman was founded in 1881 by Sophia B. Packard and Harriet E. Giles, two

pioneers in women’s education from New England who were concerned with the

lack of educational opportunities for Black women. John D. Rockefeller was an early

funder, and the school was named in honor of his wife, Laura Spelman Rockefeller,

and her parents, who were longtime activists in the antislavery movement. Spelman

was traditionally the starting point for teachers, nurses, and other Black female lead-

ers. Today’s emphasis is on getting Spelman grads into boardrooms, courtrooms,

and engineering labs. Honing women for leadership is the main mission, and that

nurturing takes place on a classic collegiate- green campus with a $463 million

endowment.

These are heady times for Spelman. Although it finds itself competing head- on

with the Seven Sisters and other prestigious and predominantly white institu-

tions that are eager to recruit talented Black women, the college is holding its

own. Spelman offers a well- rounded liberal arts curriculum that emphasizes the

importance of critical and analytical thinking and problem- solving. Usually, by

the end of sophomore year, students are expected to complete 40 credit hours of

core requirements, including English composition, foreign language, mathemat-

ics, African diaspora and the world, international or comparative women’s studies,

wellness and health, and computer literacy. In addition, freshmen are required

to take a First- Year Experience course, and sophomores must take Sophomore

Seminar.

Spelman’s established strengths lie in the natural sciences (especially biology)

and the humanities, both of which have outstanding faculty. Biology is among the

most popular majors, as are psychology, political science, and economics. An inter-

disciplinary major in health sciences is one of

the fastest- growing offerings, along with a minor

in food studies. Over the last decade, the college

has greatly strengthened its math and science offerings; extensive undergraduate

research programs in these areas provide students with publishing opportunities,

and many end up attending grad school. In fact, Spelman leads the nation in the

number of Black women who go on to earn Ph.D.s in STEM fields. Premed and

Website: www .spelman .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,325

Undergraduates: 2,325

Male/Female: 0/100

Financial Aid: 74%

Pell Grant: 43%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 67%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 13,649

Accepted: 28%

Enrolled: 15%

Grad in 6 Years: 74%

Returning Freshmen: 89%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 982- 2411

Email Address: admiss @

spelman .edu

Strong Programs:

Biology

Psychology

Political Science

Economics

Health Sciences

Mathematics

Premed

African Diaspora Studies

“It’s a true sisterhood. The

bonds are everlasting.”

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40 SPELMAN COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

prelaw programs are strong, and the 3– 2 dual- degree program in engineering in

cooperation with Georgia Tech is also a standout. The Women’s Research and

Resource Center specializes in women’s studies and community outreach.

“The academic climate is very competitive,” says an English major. “The school

is made up of the top students from around the country, and the courses are designed

to be a challenge for the best of the best.” Individual attention is the hallmark of a

Spelman education. Many faculty members are Black and/or female— and thus,

excellent role models, ones the students find very accessible. “The professors here

genuinely love what they do,” says a sociology major. Except for some of the required

introductory courses, classes are small; 66 percent have fewer than 20 students.

Through the Spelman MILE (My Integrated Learning Experience), all students com-

plete internships or undergraduate research projects in their majors. Students who

want to spread their wings can venture abroad, as 19 percent do, through a variety

of programs in 40 countries, or try one of the domestic exchange arrangements with

Wellesley, Mount Holyoke, or Vassar.

“Spelman’s personality is definitely ‘Black Girl Magic,’” cheers a biology major.

“We exude positivity, happiness, and success.” Spelman’s reputation continues to

attract high- achieving, goal- oriented Black women from all over the country, includ-

ing a high proportion of alumnae children, and

the school has become increasingly selective.

Twenty- seven percent of students come from

Georgia, and less than 1 percent come from abroad.

Ninety- eight percent are Black; American Indian, Hispanic/Latina, Asian American,

and white students combine to make up 2 percent of the student body. The political

atmosphere is liberal, and according to a history major, “Hot topics on campus include

the gentrification of the city of Atlanta (particularly the West End neighborhood that

the campus is located in), women’s rights, and issues related to the preservation of

Black lives.” Spelman offers a limited number of merit scholarships, and 43 percent of

freshmen receive Pell Grants. There are no athletic scholarships.

Fifty- eight percent of students live on campus in Spelman’s 11 residence halls.

Older halls add to the school’s historical charm; students recommend that fresh-

men check out Howard- Harreld Hall. Students report that there are more juniors

and seniors who would like to live on campus than there are beds to accommodate

them. The meal plan is mandatory for campus- dwellers, and the food gets average

reviews. A psychology major says the school’s security efforts, gated campus, and

Title IX procedures help students “feel protected” on campus.

In part because of the Atlanta University Center, students have plenty of chances

for social interaction with other nearby colleges, especially Morehouse. “Students

mingle in the student centers of all four schools all the time, especially on Fridays,”

one denizen explains. Spelmanites also take advantage of the big- city nightlife; they

attend plays, symphonies, and the hot Atlanta nightclubs. Lenox Square is popular

for shopping. “Atlanta is a great college town!” gushes one junior. About half of the

students get involved with service opportunities in the city. Sororities are present

but only in small numbers. The attitude on drinking leans toward the conservative.

Says one student, “No alcohol on campus— period.” The most anticipated annual

events include sisterhood initiation ceremonies, homecoming, and the Founders

Day celebration. Varsity sports, never all that important, have been replaced with a

general fitness and nutrition program that features an extensive list of physical

activities such as running and yoga. The college has also introduced an intramural

program that includes basketball, flag football, soccer, and volleyball.

Spelman College has spent more than 140 years furthering the education and

opportunities of Black women. It has adapted its curriculum to meet the career aspira-

tions of today’s youth, built up its bankroll, and successfully met the recruitment

Today’s emphasis is on

getting Spelman grads

into boardrooms,

courtrooms, and

engineering labs.

“Spelman’s personality

is definitely ‘Black Girl

Magic.’”

Spelman leads the

nation in the number

of Black women who

go on to earn Ph.D.s

in STEM fields.

Overlaps

Agnes Scott,

Morehouse, Vassar,

Wellesley, Xavier

University of

Louisiana, Howard,

Clark Atlanta,

Hampton

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COLLEGE OF THE ATLANTIC 41

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

challenge posed by diversity efforts at other universities. As elite an institution as ever,

Spelman is staking its future on its ability to provide a unique kind of education that

gives its graduates a competitive edge in the 21st century. As one satisfied student

says, “If there is any place that a student can be academically enriched, it is here.”

If You Apply To ›

Spelman: Early decision, early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Accepts applications from stu-

dents who consistently live and self- identify as women, regardless of their gender assignment at birth. Please consult

Spelman’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

College of the Atlantic

105 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

In today’s status- driven world, COA is as out- there as it gets— a haven for community-

minded, environmentally conscious students who would rather save the world than

make a buck. Lacks many of the usual trappings of college life, such as sports teams

and Greek life. But with roughly 350 undergrads, it makes its distinctive blend of

smallness and diversity an academic and social virtue. Students get lots of hands- on

experience and have a big voice in running the school.

The College of the Atlantic attracts rugged individualists concerned with the world’s

pressing issues, notably climate change, social justice, and food systems. The col-

lege’s curriculum and sole major is focused on human ecology— the study of the

relationship between humans and their natural, social, and built environments.

COA bucks the national obsession with growth— seeing smallness as the key to edu-

cation that cuts across disciplines— while taking a personalized approach to teach-

ing and learning. “I chose COA because I found no other school that gave me as

much freedom to create my own educational path,” says one sophomore.

The 35- acre campus, covered in lush flowers, vegetable gardens, and lawns, sits

on Mount Desert Island (pronounced “dessert”), along the shoreline of Frenchman

Bay and adjacent to the magnificent Acadia National Park. In addition, the col-

lege maintains two offshore island research centers, two organic farms, a 100- acre

wooded protectorate, and wood- pellet- heated “green” dorms. Founded by local resi-

dents in 1969, COA’s mission is reflected in the facilities: sustainability is prized, and

the college uses environmentally responsible materials as much as possible. “We

believe the most sustainable building is that which isn’t built,” says an administra-

tor. The $13 million Davis Center for Human Ecology, houses classrooms, science

labs, art studios, and a teaching greenhouse.

Instead of traditional academic departments, COA has three broad resource

areas: environmental sciences, arts and design, and human studies. “Many classes

are project- based, with fewer tests and more essays, presentations, field trips, class

discussions, and self- directed assignments,” says a sophomore. Students may choose

to concentrate on more narrowly defined topics within human ecology, such as cli-

mate change and energy, environmental law and politics, educational studies, farm-

ing and food systems, or sustainable business. With advisors and resource specialists,

each student designs an individual course of study. The natural sciences are stel-

lar, with excellent instruction in marine science, field ecology and natural history,

and food systems and sustainability. Allied Whale, the school’s marine mammal

Website: www .coa .edu

Location: Rural

Private

Total Enrollment: 365

Undergraduates: 358

Male/Female: 32/68

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 25%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 48%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 486

Accepted: 60%

Enrolled: 33%

Grad in 6 Years: 58%

Returning Freshmen: 74%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 528- 0025

Email Address: inquiry @

coa .edu

Strong Programs:

Human Ecology

Environmental Science

Climate Change and Energy

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42 COLLEGE OF THE ATLANTIC

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

laboratory founded in 1972, offers opportunities for hands- on field research. For the

entrepreneurially minded, the Hatchery is COA’s sustainable business incubator,

offering eligible students academic credit, a variety of resources, and 10 weeks to

develop a business venture and build a prototype. The emphasis is on interdisciplin-

ary exploration, and the most compelling ideas get a $5,000 grant from the college

along with a year of professional services.

Student life at COA is intense and semicommunal, beginning with an optional,

rugged five- day wilderness orientation preceding the first trimester. Before graduat-

ing, students must complete 40 hours of community service, a 10- week off- campus

internship, and a 10- week senior project. Other

requirements are few: first- years must take the

human ecology core course, and two courses are

required in environmental sciences, human

studies, and arts and design. Sophomores must

submit a writing portfolio for evaluation. All stu-

dents incorporate research into their studies, whether it is a development impact

study for the local government or a study on the aggression of fire ants for Acadia

National Park.

“The classes at COA are unique, innovative, and tailored to the students,”

explains a senior. Ninety- four percent of all classes have fewer than 20 students, and

since the student body is so small, students can become close to faculty members.

“Most COA classes are discussion- based; thus, much of the professors’ work is about

facilitating conversations while inserting their knowledge into the discussions,”

says a sophomore. In addition to traditional grades, students receive in- depth writ-

ten evaluations of their work. They must reciprocate with a self- evaluation of their

performance.

COA offers regular study abroad programs in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and in

Vichy, France. In the Yucatán, students do ethnographic, agricultural, or scientific

research of their own choosing. In France, they take literature, philosophy, politics,

and/or art classes. Both programs include a strong language immersion component.

COA also supports student participation in other study abroad programs through

partner institutions such as the EcoLeague. Sixty percent of students go abroad

during their time at COA.

“COA is funky. We are a collection of eclectic personalities, people from diverse

backgrounds and interests who come together with shared values and goals for a sus-

tainable, peaceful future,” says one sophomore. Fifteen percent of students are native

to Maine, but another 61 percent hail from nearly

40 other states. The student population also has a

strong international flavor— 24 percent of stu-

dents come from nearly 50 countries— driven by

the school’s affiliation with the Davis United

World College Scholars Program, an international

scholarship program. The student body is roughly 1 percent Black, 2 percent Asian

American, 6 percent Hispanic/Latino, and 3 percent multiracial, and women outnum-

ber men more than 2 to 1. The college’s governance system gives students and admin-

istrators almost equal voices in how it’s run; anyone may raise concerns or vote on

policy changes or the hiring of new faculty at the All College Meeting. The overtly

liberal student body isn’t shy about speaking out on global issues either. But a sopho-

more notes, “I don’t think there are many political differences on issues like climate

change, abortion rights or queer rights.” Nearly 60 percent of students receive merit

scholarships, worth an average of $15,020.

With the opening of two new residential buildings in 2022 and 2023 and the

purchase of multiple off- campus townhouses, COA has been working to address a

(continued)

Environmental Law and Politics

Farming and Food Systems

Marine Science

Field Ecology and Natural

History

Zoology

“Many classes are project-

based, with fewer tests and

more essays, presentations,

and self- directed

assignments.”

The college maintains

two offshore island

research centers, two

organic farms, and

a 100- acre wooded

protectorate.

“COA is funky. We are

a collection of eclectic

personalities who come

together with shared

values.”

With advisors and

resource specialists,

each student designs

an individual

course of study.

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AUBURN UNIVERSITY 43

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

housing crunch created by an expanding tourism season that has driven up prices

and limited the availability of rental housing in and around Bar Harbor. Roughly

64 percent of students now live in college- owned housing. Dining fare in the TAB

(“Take- a- Break”) Dining Hall and the Sea Urchin Café gets generally high praise.

“The meals themselves are made by students and chefs together with a lot of love,”

according to one student. The university has expanded mental health counseling

and students say COA “is a safe campus situated in a safe town in one of the safest

states in the U.S.” All students are required to take bystander intervention training

once a year to learn strategies for preventing sexual assault.

Bar Harbor is a tourist community that “nearly shuts down in the winter,”

according to one student, although they do enjoy the coffee shops, bakeries, restau-

rants, and movie theaters that stay open. Students get to know the townspeople

through community service. On- campus activi-

ties include open- mic nights, talent shows, con-

certs, dances, and, during the winter, “weekly

Fireside Fridays with free cookies, hot chocolate,

and coffee,” says a sophomore. There are no fraternities or sororities— “this is an

alien concept to us,” says a student. Instead, many kick back at small off- campus

house parties, which often revolve around potluck meals, since campus dining ser-

vices are closed on weekends. Drinking is permitted on campus for those of legal

age, only in private student rooms, but students agree that alcohol has little influ-

ence on the social scene. There are no varsity sports (not even ice hockey), but many

students sign up for programs at the local YMCA, which offers sports such as soccer

and volleyball. Outdoor programs, which take students hiking, sailing, cross- country

skiing, and rock climbing in the wilds of Maine, are very active.

College of the Atlantic is a place where Earth Day really is cause for celebration,

where students have been known to cut class to march on Washington, and where

everyone who wants to, from students to trustees, jumps into frigid Frenchman Bay

on the first Friday of the fall term to swim the stretch of water between the school’s

pier and the neighboring island. At COA, “You can’t escape good conversations, or

controversies, or being challenged, or learning something you never thought you’d

learn or try,” observes a senior. “You can’t just play it safe. This community, the

professors, your fellow students, won’t allow it.”

College of the Atlantic

is a place where Earth

Day really is cause

for celebration.

“We have no Greek

organizations. This is an

alien concept to us.”

Overlaps

Bennington,

Warren Wilson,

Hampshire, Eckerd,

University of New

England, University

of Vermont,

University of Maine

If You Apply To ›

COA: Early decision I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Application includes space for applicants to describe their gender identity.

Auburn University

202 Mary Martin Hall, Auburn, AL 36849

Sweet Home Alabama, where the skies are so blue and the spirit of football lasts

year- round. Auburn was once called Alabama Polytechnic Institute, and today

AU’s programs in engineering, agriculture, and the health fields are still among its

best. AU’s down- home, small- town atmosphere may feel claustrophobic to those

from outside the Deep South. As for the role of football, the $14 million scoreboard

says it all.

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44 AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Founded in 1856, Auburn University is a public land grant university that excels in

professional and technical fields such as architecture, engineering, and agriculture.

But the school also welcomes students with frenzied athletics, warm and cozy hos-

pitality, and Southern charm. “It truly is a family atmosphere. We are here to learn

and help each other,” says one happy Tiger.

The town of Auburn, which grew up amid miles of forest and farmland largely

to serve the university, is called the “loveliest village of the plain,” a moniker taken

from a line in an Oliver Goldsmith poem. The campus stretches for nearly 2,000

acres, graced by mossy trees, lush lawns, and majestic colonnades. Most buildings

are redbrick and Georgian in style, with some more modern facilities grouped in a

compact central location. Newer facilities include the $70 million Gogue Performing

Arts Center and the $35 million Mell Classroom Building, which includes 26

state- of- the- art engaged learning spaces, along with dining venues and study areas.

Auburn’s core curriculum includes courses in the humanities and fine arts, science

and mathematics, and social sciences. A writing- in- the- disciplines program bolsters

every major with significant writing instruction. To ease the transition into college life,

freshmen undergo the two- day Camp War Eagle orientation. Auburn’s SKILL Program

provides academic coaching for students with learning differences and ADHD. The

academic climate varies by department, and a senior says, “Rather than students com-

peting with each other for higher grades, they are more willing to help their classmates

through tutoring or group study sessions.” Regardless of the rigor, students say profes-

sors generally go the extra mile for them. “Although I have not liked every teacher I’ve

had, every teacher has taught me something new and useful,” reasons a junior.

The engineering, architecture, agriculture, and pharmacy programs are stellar.

Auburn boasts a first- of- its- kind program in wireless engineering for students who

want to design network hardware or software for cell phones and other mobile

devices. The Ginn College of Engineering also

offers aerospace engineering, and Auburn has

produced six NASA astronauts. The most popular

majors include marketing, mechanical engineer-

ing, nursing, and finance, and the environmen-

tal science, pharmacy, and interior architecture programs also draw attention.

Accelerated degree programs in numerous fields allow eligible students to count

approved graduate hours toward both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, with the

goal of completing both in as little as five years.

Many Auburn students are eager to get started on their careers, so the co- op pro-

gram, which provides pay and credit in several professional fields, is increasingly

popular. Five interdisciplinary areas identified as “strategic research clusters” com-

pete for millions of dollars in special funding, which means more opportunities for

undergrads to assist faculty with research in areas including health disparities, phar-

maceutical engineering, climate and earth systems science, omics (yes, it’s a word)

and informatics, and scalable energy conversion science and technology. Thirty per-

cent of undergrads have worked with faculty on research by the time they graduate.

Twelve percent of students join the Honors College, which culminates in a six- credit

Senior Year Experience that may involve a traditional thesis, enhanced study abroad,

service learning, or other capstone project. Through the Auburn Abroad Experience,

20 percent of all students can partake in more than 50 faculty- led expeditions. Closer

to home, the Rural Studio program sends students in the College of Architecture,

Design, and Construction to live in economically underserved Hale County, Alabama,

to design and build innovative community buildings and homes for locals.

Auburn students are “mostly Southern people who are from Alabama and who

have family that went to Auburn,” says a junior. Indeed, 59 percent of Auburn under-

graduates are Alabama natives, and many are second- or third- generation legacies.

Website: www .auburn .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 26,479

Undergraduates: 22,979

Male/Female: 49/51

Financial Aid: 46%

Pell Grant: 11%

Expense: Pub $ $

Student Loans: 38%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 45,693

Accepted: 44%

Enrolled: 26%

Grad in 6 Years: 81%

Returning Freshmen: 92%

Academics:

- -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (334) 844- 6425

Email Address: admissions @

auburn .edu

Strong Programs:

Mechanical Engineering

Architecture

Agriculture

Prepharmacy

Environmental Science

Human Development and

Family Studies

Interior Architecture

Marketing

“[Students] are willing

to help their classmates

through tutoring or group

study sessions.”

The Ginn College

of Engineering also

offers aerospace

engineering, and

Auburn has produced

six NASA astronauts.

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AUBURN UNIVERSITY 45

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Black students account for a mere 4 percent of the largely homogeneous student

body, Hispanics/Latinos represent 4 percent, Asian Americans make up 3 percent,

and multiracial students add 3 percent; 3 percent hail from foreign countries. The

conservative tone of this public Bible Belt campus makes it hospitable for more than

30 Christian student groups. “Half of Auburn

students love politics and enjoy the political pro-

cess, while the other half wouldn’t know where

their polling place was if you gave them a map,” quips one senior. In an effort to

increase diversity and address racial disparities on campus, Auburn has tripled the

amount of money that it allocates to need- based financial aid for incoming fresh-

men. The university also awards merit scholarships averaging $7,700 and more than

400 athletic scholarships in 21 sports.

The majority of Auburn’s 24 residence halls are co- ed by floor, but there are sev-

eral single- sex halls; 17 percent of undergrads live in college housing. First- year stu-

dents compete for rooms on a first- come, first- served basis with returning students,

and the dorms fill up fast. “Get on a waiting list ASAP,” advises a junior. The univer-

sity helps those moving off campus find apartments and roommates. Twenty- seven

percent of Auburn men join fraternities, and 44 percent of women join sororities,

perhaps because chapters get space in the best dorms. Students grumble about the

mandatory— and pricey— meal plan, but say the dining has improved considerably in

recent years. “The food continues to diversify and get healthier,” confirms a student.

Aside from varsity sporting events and off- campus fraternity and apartment par-

ties, students enjoy school- sponsored concerts, free movies, and plenty of intramural

leagues. “Social life is great whether you are Greek or not,” says a freshman. The

campus is officially dry, except on game days, and students say the alcohol policy is

enforced. Long- standing traditions include Hey Day, when everyone wears a name

tag and walks around saying, “Hey!” Forty- six percent of students participate in a

variety of community service programs, frequently as part of service- learning courses.

Auburn is a football powerhouse with pockets as deep as its location in the South

and values to match. The school’s $14 million video scoreboard was hailed by the

athletic director as “a great asset, not only for our fans but also our students and our

prospective student- athletes.” Okay! On fall Saturdays, nearly 90,000 screaming fans

turn the campus into Alabama’s fifth- largest city, and the rallying cry “Warrrrr Eagle!”

rocks the place each time an Auburn back runs to daylight. The annual Iron Bowl pits

Auburn against Southeastern Conference archrival Alabama. Other solid Tigers teams

include men’s basketball, baseball, softball, and women’s equestrian. Aubie, the offi-

cial tiger mascot, has won a record 10 titles (mascots compete in national champi-

onships too) at the UCA Cheer and Dance competition. The Auburn Recreation and

Wellness Center is a 240,000- square- foot facility containing everything from weight-

training areas to a virtual golf simulator and an outdoor leisure pool.

The Auburn Creed, a beloved tradition, states a belief in the value of “work, hard

work,” and Auburn is working hard to increase the caliber of its students and aca-

demic programs. “Auburn has become more focused on the future,” one senior says.

But students agree that certain key characteristics have stayed the same— and that’s

a good thing. Says one student, “We just keep getting cooler.”

“The food continues to

diversify and get healthier.”

On fall Saturdays,

nearly 90,000

screaming fans turn

the campus into

Alabama’s fifth-

largest city, and

the rallying cry

“Warrrrr Eagle!”

rocks the place.

Overlaps

Clemson,

Mississippi State,

North Carolina

State, University

of Alabama,

University of

Tennessee

Knoxville, Georgia

Tech, University of

Florida, University

of Georgia

If You Apply To ›

Auburn: Early action I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Portfolio required for art

applicants. Audition required for music, dance, and theater applicants. Out- of- state enrollment is capped on a year- to- year

basis; there are no set limits. Please consult Auburn’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized

test requirements.

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46 AUSTIN COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Austin College

900 North Grand Avenue, Sherman, TX 75090

The second most famous institution in Texas with Austin in its name. Half the size

of Trinity (TX), runs neck and neck with Southwestern to be the leading small

liberal arts college in Texas— and supports a more diverse student body. Combines

the liberal arts with strong programs in business, education, science, and health,

including premed. Don’t look for the ’Roos on a map of the city of Austin. The college

is just north of Dallas.

For historical reasons over which reasonable persons can and do disagree, the Kangaroo

has become the symbol of all things Austin College. All freshmen receive #RooNation

T-shirts at orientation, and students hold a trick- or- treat alternative known as ’Roo

Boo for local children. The college was founded by a Presbyterian missionary in 1849,

and its continuous ties to the Presbyterian Church (USA) are evident in the empha-

sis on values in core courses and high participation in service activities. Professors

here even serve students breakfast at 10 p.m. the night before finals. It’s just another

example of the personal style that is typical of this charming Southern institution,

which also boasts preprofessional programs, most notably premed, that are among

the strongest in the state.

Austin College’s 100- acre campus is in a residential area in the city of Sherman

(population 45,000), an hour’s drive from Dallas. The campus is designed in the tra-

ditional quadrangle style and comprises beige brick buildings, tree- lined plazas, dec-

orative fountains, and an impressive 70- ton sculptured solstice calendar. Residence

halls are conveniently located about 200 yards from most classrooms, which eases

the pain of early morning classes. The IDEA Center for hands- on learning in the

sciences features laboratory classrooms as well as a $1 million, 24- inch telescope and

astronomical image camera in the building’s domed observatory.

The core curriculum begins with a first- year seminar. Each professor who teaches

the course becomes the mentor for the 20 freshmen in his or her class. Then stu-

dents select from courses in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, as well

as classes that focus on writing skills, quantitative literacy, and diversity. Students

must complete one major and a minor or a double major to graduate. Additionally,

all students satisfy an applied learning requirement by completing an internship,

practicum, or similar experience. Adds one senior, “Austin College is very good for

volunteering. Every year, they offer the Great Day of Service, where we can sign up

for different places around Sherman to volunteer.” During the January term, stu-

dents focus on just one course, and many use that time to study abroad or undertake

off- campus internships.

When it comes time to apply to grad school, premed, predentistry, and prelaw

students at this little college have some of the highest acceptance rates of any

Texas school. A new BA2PA track has been added for undergrads who are inter-

ested in becoming physician’s assistants. Those

interested in the healing arts benefit from strong

programs in neuroscience, public health, bio-

chemistry, health care administration, and a

new minor in mindfulness and health studies. The noteworthy Austin Teacher

Program allows students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in five

years. Business administration, psychology, biology, and business finance are the

most popular majors, while minors in social justice and nonprofit organizations

and public affairs are also available. For students who want to dive into global

Website: www .austincollege

.edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,179

Undergraduates: 1,164

Male/Female: 49/49

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 32%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 60%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 5,129

Accepted: 55%

Enrolled: 12%

Grad in 6 Years: 73%

Returning Freshmen: 84%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (903) 813- 3000

Email Address: admission @

austincollege .edu

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Kinesiology

Neuroscience

Public Health

Biochemistry

Healthcare Administration

Psychology

Biology

“Austin College students

choose to lend a helping

hand and a smile.”

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AUSTIN COLLEGE 47

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

education, the Jordan Family Language House is home to the first- year Global

Living Learning Community, where 20 new students can build camaraderie with

like- minded friends and immerse themselves in a variety of modern languages. A

cooperative engineering program links the college with other schools.

Of the academic climate, an art major says, “I’ve really enjoyed the small class

sizes, breadth and depth of study, and the academic student services available.”

Sixty percent of all classes have fewer than 20 students. “Teachers always make time

for students, they’re approachable, and the mentor program really helps when it

comes to registering for classes and looking for summer research programs or intern-

ships,” says a student. The college also offers independent study and departmental

honors programs. The Posey Leadership Institute offers seminars and courses, and a

minor in leadership studies is available. AC provides five research areas in Grayson

County, including the Sneed Prairie Restoration Project. Students are able to con-

duct faculty- mentored undergraduate research, and can choose to study abroad in

programs offered in more than 60 countries. The Global Outreach fellowship pro-

gram gives 10 to 15 students the chance to volunteer in educational programs

around the world.

According to one junior, “Even within the smallest interactions, Austin College

students choose to lend a helping hand and a smile.” Ninety- two percent of

students hail from the Lone Star State, with 1 percent from abroad. Hispanics/

Latinos comprise 26 percent of the student body, Black students 7 percent, Asian

Americans 12 percent, and multiracial students 3 percent. Politically, students say

the campus leans liberal. AC offers merit scholarships worth an average of $27,700

but no athletic scholarships.

Eighty- six percent of undergraduates live on campus, and all are required to do

so for their first three years. “Housing is above average,” a business administration

junior says, although can be “quite competitive,”

adds an English major. Residence halls are co- ed,

except for one all- female and one all- male dorm.

Juniors and seniors choose from suites, flats, and

cottages. Dean Hall is a popular choice for freshmen, despite (or perhaps because of)

its reputation as being loud and social. As for campus dining, “The cafeteria has

really stepped it up recently,” cheers one student. “There are always a lot of options,

and the food is genuinely good.” The Pouch Club, an on- campus joint, serves pizza

and burgers, as well as beer and wine for those of legal age. Students report feeling

safe on campus thanks to thorough campus security and sexual assault prevention

programs.

Most of the social life is either on or near campus. “There is always something

to do, from smaller activities and club meetings to big dinners and guest speakers,”

a junior says. Twenty- one percent of the men and 29 percent of the women belong

to local fraternities and sororities, respectively, but Greek groups are not allowed to

advertise off- campus parties without the college’s permission. Students can have

alcohol in their rooms if they are 21 or older. Mega Texas is a campus carnival in the

fall, and Kangapalooza brings a big- name musician to campus in the spring. Popular

weekend excursions are a drive to Dallas or to the college’s 28- acre recreational spot

on Lake Texoma (a half hour north). Of Sherman, one junior says, “There are super

cute coffee shops, bookstores, antiques malls, and parks all around town.”

The Kangaroos compete in Division III, and the women’s water polo team cap-

tured back- to- back Collegiate Water Polo Association national championships in

2021 and 2022. Other solid teams include women’s basketball, men’s soccer, and

men’s and women’s swimming and diving. The recreational sports program draws

a third of the students, with flag football, volleyball, and soccer proving popular.

At this college with roots in the Presbyterian Church, students praise the

AC has added a new

minor in mindfulness

and health studies.

“I’ve really enjoyed the

small class sizes [and] the

breadth and depth of study.”

Mega Texas is a

campus carnival

in the fall.

Overlaps

Southwestern,

Hendrix, St. Mary’s

University (TX),

Trinity University

(TX), Rhodes,

Baylor, UT Austin,

Texas A&M

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48 BABSON COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

preprofessional programs and the intimate, supportive environment. “Austin

College cares for each student, and no one falls through the cracks,” says a senior.

“If you need help, often before you need it, people are reaching out to provide it to

you.” And while Sherman may seem to be a sleepy little place, Austin College is

definitely hoppin’.

If You Apply To ›

Austin: Early action I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional (only considered if a student elects them to be used

in admission review). Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Babson College

Babson Park, MA 02457- 0310

The only college in the Fiske Guide devoted entirely to business. Babson is the

birthplace of entrepreneurial studies— which continue to define the campus ethos.

Only 10 miles from college student mecca Boston and tougher to get into than

ever. About two- thirds the size of Bentley, its closest competitor, and 28 percent of

students are international. The one college in Massachusetts where it is possible to

be a Republican with head held high.

Babson is a preeminent training ground for budding entrepreneurs and corpo-

rate bigwigs. The college is a pioneer in the study of entrepreneurship, dating to

the 1970s— a time when people thought it couldn’t be taught. Here, hands- on

experience is the norm; students get school funding to start businesses during their

first year and may hone their stock- picking skills by managing part of the college’s

endowment. Always the foremost business college in the Boston area, Babson

attracts budding tycoons and entrepreneurs from around the globe.

Founded in 1919 by financier Roger Babson, the college sits on 370 acres near

the sedate Boston suburb of Wellesley. The campus features open green spaces,

gently rolling hills, and heavily wooded areas. Buildings are gently shaded and park-

ing lots (filled with expensive foreign cars) are discreetly hidden. Architecturally, the

campus is mainly neo- Georgian and modern. Park Manor West doubles as a first-

year residence hall and the home of the Schlesinger Innovation Center, offering an

amphitheater, classrooms, and collaboration spaces.

Although Babson is a business school, with that as its only academic major,

students take business classes blended with coursework in the liberal arts and

sciences. Babson’s core curriculum emphasizes three major components. In the

first, the yearlong Foundations of Management and Entrepreneurship course,

first- year students split into groups to develop start- up business plans; each

group gets up to $3,000 in seed money from the college to get their concept up

and running. At the end of the year, the business is liquidated and profits go

to charity. Former FME groups have developed Babsonopoly (a Babson- themed

version of Monopoly), published children’s books, and sold solar- powered smart-

phone chargers. Second, sophomores take Socio- Ecological Systems, a cotaught

course where they imagine sustainable solutions to real- world challenges.

Finally, the Advanced Experiential course pairs juniors and seniors with an out-

side company or nonprofit organization for a semester- long, business- oriented

project.

Website: www .babson .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 3,989

Undergraduates: 2,761

Male/Female: 58/42

Financial Aid: 44%

Pell Grant: 17%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 37%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 7,607

Accepted: 22%

Enrolled: 39%

Grad in 6 Years: 93%

Returning Freshmen: 95%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (781) 239- 5522

Email Address:

ugradadmission @ babson .edu

Strong Programs:

Business

Entrepreneurship

Finance

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BABSON COLLEGE 49

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

All Babson students major in business and may select from 24 concentrations,

such as business analytics, operations management, or real estate— or even iden-

tity and diversity studies or literary and visual arts— to further refine their studies.

(The Sorenson Visual Arts Center has painting, ceramics, and sculpture studios; labs

for photography and digital art; a student art gallery; and workspace for artists- in-

residence.) Finance, economics, marketing, and entrepreneurship are the most pop-

ular concentrations, and the entrepreneurship program is one of Babson’s strongest,

bringing in venture capitalists and executives from such companies as Dunkin’

Donuts and Jiffy Lube for how- to lectures.

In the classroom, Babson relies on the case- study approach more typically

employed by M.B.A. programs. Students break into groups or act as officers of

pseudo- corporations to address specific business situations and solve marketplace

problems. “Even though most of our classes are

group project– based, there is still a very intense,

competitive atmosphere,” says a student. Just

13 percent of classes have fewer than 20 stu-

dents, but others rarely exceed 50. “Professors know your name and know what your

struggles are in the class,” shares a junior. Accounting students may take graduate

classes at Babson in the summer and fall after finishing their bachelor’s degrees,

letting them sit for the CPA exam about one year earlier than most other programs.

The Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership promotes women in business

and offers scholarships, special events, and networking opportunities. Babson offers

more than 100 global study programs around the world, in which 63 percent of

students participate; students in the Honors Program are required to do so. Not all

programs are business oriented; the London Theatre Program, for example, focuses

on arts appreciation.

Babson students are go- getters. “We enjoy comparing how full our Google

calendars are,” says one senior, and another student adds, “No one blinks an eye

when a student is walking around campus in a suit.” Black students make up

4 percent of the undergraduate student body, Hispanics/Latinos 15 percent,

Asian Americans 13 percent, and multiracial students 2 percent. Massachusetts

residents comprise 24 percent, while 28 percent are international. No one seems

to care much about politics, or at least most prefer to avoid political discussions.

“Students with financial constraints would definitely find a challenging time

fitting in,” cautions an accounting student, because “there is a lot of wealth on

this campus,” and socializing with friends often involves pricey nights out in

Boston. Merit scholarships averaging $23,150 are available; there are no athletic

scholarships.

Babson guarantees housing for four years, and 77 percent of undergraduates live

on campus, resulting in high demand for singles and suites. “The suite- style living is

awesome,” says a freshman. “It allows you to live with a bunch of your best friends

but still have separate singles to sleep in.” After

the first year, rooms are assigned by lottery, with

standing based on credits earned; housing poli-

cies are gender inclusive. At the main dining

hall, you’ll find sushi, make- your- own stir- fry,

vegan stations, and other options, which receive average reviews. Security gets high

marks, and the student- led Alliance for Sexual Assault Prevention organization is

active in raising awareness about campus sexual assault.

Social life is centered on campus during the first two years through participa-

tion in more than 100 student organizations; after that, most students are 21 and

have cars, so they head to the clubs and bars of Boston proper, about 20 minutes

away. “Boston offers a very vibrant social scene for upperclassmen,” confirms a

(continued)

Economics

Marketing

Accounting

Business Analytics

“Professors know your

name and know what your

struggles are in the class.”

Students may hone

their stock- picking

skills by managing

part of the college’s

endowment.

“The suite- style living is

awesome, [allowing] you

to live with a bunch of your

best friends.”

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50 BARD COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

senior. The Campus Activities Board brings in comedians, organizes bingo nights,

and throws parties, as do Greek organizations, which attract 17 percent of the men

and 24 percent of the women. “We never have any Friday classes, so Thursday and

Saturday are the big party nights,” explains a sophomore. Underage drinking on

campus is treated with a three- strike policy, and the third offense gets violators

kicked out of the dorms. Favorite campus festivals include alumni weekend (great

networking opportunities) and Spring Concert, when bands come to play. Students

also contribute more than 30,000 volunteer hours annually through the Office of

Faith and Service.

The “very affluent” town of Wellesley has shops and restaurants, and there is

a subway stop. Students can take the T’s Green Line into the city to explore

Quincy Market or the campuses of Harvard, Northeastern, Emerson, and Boston

universities. The school sponsors trips to Celtics

and Red Sox games. Wellesley is also home to

Wellesley College, and it’s not unheard of for

Babson students to socialize with Wellesley

women; Babson also offers cross- registration at

Wellesley and neighboring Olin College of Engineering. Popular road trips include

the beaches of Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, the ski slopes of Vermont and

New Hampshire, and the bright lights of New York City and Montreal.

While making money may be the most popular form of competition at Babson,

students recognize the importance of keeping their bodies in competitive condition

too. Popular intramural and club sports include volleyball, rugby, and ice hockey,

and on the varsity level, the Beavers play in Division III. Any match against archrival

Bentley and soccer games against Brandeis and Colby draw crowds. The men’s ice

hockey team is formidable, and men’s and women’s basketball, lacrosse, and alpine

skiing are frequent title contenders.

At Babson, students embrace entrepreneurship as an ethos and are willing to

work hard for what they want. One student calls it a “grind culture,” but finds it

“inspiring.” After all, learning how to balance work with everything else that’s

important in life is a prerequisite to climbing the corporate ladder or becoming the

next Elon Musk. And thanks to small classes, strong faculty connections, a laser- like

focus on entrepreneurial leadership, and plenty of hands- on experience, students

leave Babson well equipped to begin scampering up those rungs.

In the classroom,

Babson relies on

the case- study

approach more

typically employed

by M.B.A. programs.

“We never have any Friday

classes, so Thursday and

Saturday are the big party

nights.”

Overlaps

Bentley,

Northeastern,

Boston University,

Boston College,

NYU, Cornell,

UC Berkeley,

University of

Pennsylvania

If You Apply To ›

Babson: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please

consult Babson’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Bard College

Annandale- on- Hudson, NY 12504

A dominant presence in the world of nontraditional liberal arts colleges, Bard offers

what is arguably the most innovative range of academic programs anywhere. Like

Reed on the West Coast, combines unabashed individuality with rigorous traditional

academics. Long- standing president Leon Botstein, a polymath known by all simply as

“Leon,” is an iconic educator who has championed the liberal arts in countries around

the world.

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BARD COLLEGE 51

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Bard College has come a long way since its 1860 founding by 12 men studying

to enter the seminaries of the Episcopal Church. Those pioneers would no doubt

be surprised at the eclectic mix of students now running around Annandale- on-

Hudson in an ethos once described by the New Yorker as one of “quixotic unworld-

liness.” But the idea that Bard is strictly a school for artists and social science majors

has largely disappeared, and the result is a school with a wide range of intellectual

depth. Having expanded its mission beyond undergraduate and graduate education

to also encompass support for the arts, secondary education reform, and the devel-

opment of partnerships that bring education to underserved areas around the globe,

Bard has earned a well- deserved national, even international, profile. To succeed in

such a dynamic environment, one student advises, “You don’t need perfect grades.

You just need an adventurous spirit, an ambitious attitude toward self- improvement,

and an ability to evaluate your experiences and capabilities.”

Bard’s campus occupies 1,000 well- landscaped acres in New York’s Washington

Irving country, on the shores of the Hudson River. Consistent with everything else

at Bard, there’s no prevailing architectural theme, so each ivy- covered brick build-

ing stands out— especially the dorms, which range from cottages in the woods to

Russian Colonial in style. Renowned architect Frank Gehry designed the stunning,

$62 million Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, which provides teaching and per-

formance space for everything from opera to improvisation. The Center for Science

and Computation, designed by Rafael Vinoly, promotes collaborative, hands- on sci-

ence. Montgomery Place, a 380- acre estate and National Historic Landmark adjacent

to the main campus, provides additional facilities for programs in the arts, human-

ities, and environmental sciences.

Despite Bard’s reputation for nonconformity, the list of requirements is exten-

sive, including nine distribution requirements. Classes are small and seminar

style, and freshmen show up three weeks before classes start for the Workshop in

Language and Thinking, where they read extensively in several genres and meet

in small groups to discuss reading and writing. (A literature major calls L&T “the

best three weeks of my life.”) The First- Year Seminar introduces the intellectual,

artistic, and cultural ideas at the core of a liberal arts education. Citizen Science,

another three- week workshop in January, examines topics not normally covered

in the traditional science curriculum, such as infectious disease; organized into teams,

the entire first- year class then teaches science lessons in the local public schools.

In the spring of the second year, students declare a major through Moderation, a

midway review of performance and proposed study plans discussed with a board of

professors in the relevant area. In junior year, preparation for the Senior Project

begins. Students create original work as evidence of mastery in their field or fields,

and their Senior Project is reviewed by a faculty board.

With authors such as Neil Gaiman, Francine Prose, and Dinaw Mengestu teach-

ing at Bard, literature and written arts are among the school’s best programs. Bard

was one of the first to grant a B.A. in visual and performing arts and boasts one of

the finest studio programs in the country; pho-

tography is one of the toughest majors to get

into, and the film and electronic arts program is

well regarded. Bard established what administra-

tors believe is the first collegiate program in human rights. Environmental and

urban studies is also strong. There is a five- year, dual- degree conservatory program

for music students, and although Bard is far from preprofessional, it does offer com-

bined programs of its own and with other schools in finance, engineering, public

health, and a number of other fields.

Bard’s academic climate is “intellectual and consistently challenging,” says a

senior, but students agree that the atmosphere is collaborative. “Students are more

Website: www .bard .edu

Location: Rural

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,019

Undergraduates: 1,727

Male/Female: 38/62

Financial Aid: 79%

Pell Grant: 26%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 63%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 5,161

Accepted: 60%

Enrolled: 15%

Grad in 6 Years: 72%

Returning Freshmen: 87%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (845) 758- 7472

Email Address: admission @

bard .edu

Strong Programs:

Literature

Written Arts

Studio Arts

Photography

Film and Electronic Arts

Human Rights

Environmental and Urban

Studies

Music

“You don’t need perfect

grades. You just need an

adventurous spirit.”

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52 BARD COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

eager to engage in discussions about what they just learned in class than they are

likely to discuss what grades they received on the most recent exam,” says a sociol-

ogy and human rights major. Eighty- nine percent of classes have fewer than 20 stu-

dents, and if students want more individual attention, they can devise a syllabus for

their own tutorial and find a professor to sponsor it. There are no teaching assistants

here, and professors receive outstanding reviews, for both their expertise and their

personal approach. “Professors value the students as individuals first,” says a senior.

A semester- long program in New York City lets students study biology and

medicine at Rockefeller University, and spots are reserved for Bard students as

Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows. Also located in New York City, Bard’s

Globalization and International Affairs program merges advanced coursework in

global affairs with internships at leading public, private, and nonprofit agencies.

Study abroad is available in nearly 50 countries around the globe; more than half

of the students take part. The Trustee Leader Scholar program provides grants and

support for student- run community service projects. In an effort to expand liberal

arts instruction overseas and to help nurture emerging democratic societies, Bard

has developed partnerships with educational institutions in locations as diverse as

Lithuania, Kyrgyzstan, South Africa, and the West Bank, as well as among prison

inmates in the U.S.

Bard students tended to march to their own drummer in high school. “Many

struggle their first year, when they realize everyone is just as unique as they are,”

says one senior. While the school has its share of extremely wealthy children of

media moguls and Hollywood actors, Bardians take pride

in diversity, whether socioeconomic, racial, geographical

(66 percent are from out of state, with 12 percent from

foreign countries), or ideological, though they admit the

latter can be lacking. “If you’re a Republican or conservative, please come and add

some dimension to our conversation,” implores one student. “I’m sick of agreeing

with everyone.” Black students make up 6 percent of the student body, Asian

Americans 3 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 13 percent, and multiracial students 6 per-

cent. Academic scholarships based on financial need are available, but there are no

athletic awards. Bard offers a unique early- decision application option in which stu-

dents can take the Bard Entrance Examination, demonstrating their academic ability

by submitting four 2,500- word essays on a range of scholarly topics that are

graded by professors.

Three- quarters of Bard students live on campus; freshmen and sophomores are

required to do so. Residence halls vary in style, explains one student: “Some are old

Victorian mansions, some are new modern buildings that are eco- friendly, one looks

like a castle, and others are big cement monsters from the 1950s.” Many upper-

classmen move off campus; to help ease their commute, Bard runs a shuttle to the

nearby small towns of Red Hook and Tivoli (cumulative population 11,000), which

are home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and other conveniences. Campus dining

is described as “decent, but not amazing,” but students appreciate that much of the

fresh produce comes from Bard’s own student- operated farm. Students say they feel

safe on their rural campus, but administrative handling of sexual assault has been a

point of student activism.

All Bard students are automatically made members of the student government,

and cocurricular life is run by students; there are more than 150 different clubs. The

school offers cultural shows and performances, concerts, and movies, with indie

films and alternative rock and hip- hop particularly popular. The Student Activities

Board plans Urban Cowboy Night, Welcome Back Weekend, Midnight Breakfast

complete with karaoke, the ever- popular Thursday Night Live, and Spring Fling.

There are no fraternities or sororities, and when it comes to alcohol, policies are

Renowned architect

Frank Gehry designed

the stunning,

$62 million Fisher

Center for the

Performing Arts.

“Professors value

the students as

individuals first.”

Bard established

what administrators

believe is the first

collegiate program

in human rights.

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BARNARD COLLEGE 53

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

focused on safety and respect, although underage drinking in the dorms is taken

seriously. Bard’s hometown of Annandale- on- Hudson is 20 miles from the crafts and

antiques meccas of Woodstock and Rhinebeck, and not much farther from the ski

slopes of the Catskills and the Berkshires. Having a car helps to prevent occasional

attacks of claustrophobia, and New York City is just 100 minutes away by train.

The Raptors compete in 18 Division III sports and are members of a number of

conferences, including the Eastern College Athletic Conference, the Liberty League,

and the College Squash Association. Bard is virtually devoid of dedicated athletes,

but one student notes, “There are plenty of pseudo jocks and intellectuals in good

shape.” Thirty- five percent of the students get

involved in intramurals, such as basketball, floor

hockey, and bowling, which emphasize partici-

pation and fun. Across campus, miles of trails

stretch through the woods along the Hudson, perfect for everything from raspberry

picking to jogging and hiking. “If you like the woods, it’s amazing,” muses an

anthropology major. “If you like the city, you’ll go stir- crazy.”

Thanks to the iconoclastic vision of President Leon Botstein (who also conducts

the American Symphony Orchestra) and a $500 million challenge grant from George

Soros, Bard is looking forward to continuing to offer strong programs that reach far

beyond the arts. Come prepared to work hard and have your mind opened. “The

Bard culture is a weird mixture of apathy and activism, arts and sciences, quirkiness

and coolness,” says a senior. “However, the one real thing that unites Bard is an

ability to be self- driven and independent. Bard students are not followers, but estab-

lish their own paths.”

The Student Activities

Board plans Welcome

Back Weekend,

Midnight Breakfast,

and the ever- popular

Thursday Night Live.

“If you like the woods, it’s

amazing. If you like the city,

you’ll go stir- crazy.”

Overlaps

NYU, Oberlin,

Reed, Vassar,

Wesleyan,

Skidmore,

Macalester, Sarah

Lawrence

If You Apply To ›

Bard: Early decision, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

Barnard College

New York, NY 10027

The most selective women’s college in the country, Barnard is academically right

up there with Wellesley, and the workload is on par with the Ivies. Step outside and

you’re on Broadway; across the street lies Columbia University, whose academic

riches are yours for the taking. Barnard women are a little more artsy, outspoken,

and city- ish than their counterparts at Columbia.

Barnard students get the best of both worlds— the small, close- knit atmosphere

of a leading liberal arts school along with the limitless opportunities of Columbia

College, the undergraduate division of the Ivy League research institution just across

Broadway. Whether they are passionate about art, urban studies, or computer sci-

ence, women seeking a high- energy, empowering environment with top- notch aca-

demics are likely to find a niche here.

Barnard was founded in 1889 by suffragists in response to Columbia’s refusal

to admit women and was strategically named after a recently deceased Columbia

president. Its campus is on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, in the Morningside

Heights neighborhood, just blocks from Riverside Drive, with its lovely path par-

allel to the Hudson River for running or biking. Trees and other greenery shade

Website: www .barnard .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 3,084

Undergraduates: 3,084

Male/Female: 0/100

Financial Aid: 47%

Pell Grant: 20%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 37%

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54 BARNARD COLLEGE

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grand prewar apartment buildings, and grassy medians break up the wide expanse

of Broadway itself. Barnard’s architecturally diverse buildings are more modern than

Columbia’s, and in recent years, the college has invested to upgrade labs, class-

rooms, and the residence halls. The 128,000- square- foot Milstein Center includes a

state- of- the- art library featuring interactive technologies and learning spaces.

Barnard competes head- to- head with Columbia in admissions, an interesting

dilemma because Barnard is an affiliate college of Columbia University, along

with the engineering school, the medical school, the business school, and, of

course, Columbia College. In general, women

looking for a more traditional “rah- rah” experi-

ence may prefer Columbia. Some students

apply to Barnard as a back door to Columbia,

which is harder for women to get into, but

Barnard’s admissions officers have become adept at sniffing out Columbia wan-

nabes. Those who opt for Barnard like the fact that advising and housing are

better on their side of Broadway and value its distinctive approach to educating

women. Once enrolled, Barnard students share a first- year orientation program

with Columbia, where they mix together in small groups and take tours of the

campus and city. Students can also take part in a preorientation urban volunteer

program.

Barnard’s Foundations curriculum is designed to enable students to gain general

knowledge in a range of academic disciplines, develop critical- thinking and commu-

nication skills, and spend more of their time exploring other areas of interest or pur-

suing cocurricular opportunities that enhance their major. First- year students must

take a writing course, a first- year seminar, and a physical education class. In addi-

tion to standard distribution requirements, students must fulfill Modes of Thinking

requirements in six areas, such as Thinking Technologically and Digitally, Thinking

Locally, and Thinking about Social Difference. A senior project or thesis ensures

academic depth within the major.

Barnard’s most popular majors are economics, psychology, history, political

science, English, biology, and neuroscience (there’s a healthy contingent of pre-

meds). Architecture, computer science, and the visual and performing arts, espe-

cially dance, are also well regarded. Barnard

boasts strong support for budding writers and is

a hotbed of new talent. Women’s, gender, and

sexuality studies draws praise as well. New

options include a major in educational studies.

The Athena Center for Leadership Studies offers workshops, mentoring programs,

internships, guest speakers, and other special features. Several 4– 1 pathways allow

students to earn a bachelor’s degree from Barnard and a master’s degree from

Columbia in public health, engineering, international and public affairs, and other

areas in just five years. A dual- degree program is available with the nearby Jewish

Theological Seminary, and music students may apply to take classes at Juilliard and

the Manhattan School of Music. About a third of the students study abroad in their

choice of more than 35 countries, including Argentina, Australia, China, Morocco,

and Spain.

Barnard students may cross- register for courses at Columbia, and vice versa; in

certain majors, some required classes are only offered at Columbia, where the aca-

demic climate can be more competitive, with a stronger “stress culture,” says a phys-

ics major. “Compared to Columbia, the atmosphere in Barnard classes tends to be

warmer and more collaborative— almost family- like— without loss of rigor.” Many

students come to Barnard because of its low student/faculty ratio. Seventy- one per-

cent of classes have fewer than 20 students. Another plus: Barnard has no graduate

(continued)

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 12,009

Accepted: 9%

Enrolled: 66%

Grad in 6 Years: 92%

Returning Freshmen: 96%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (212) 854- 2014

Email Address: admissions @

barnard .edu

Strong Programs:

Architecture

Computer Science

Visual and Performing Arts

English

Women’s, Gender, and

Sexuality Studies

Economics

Psychology

History

“Barnard students are smart,

driven, strong go- getters

who are going to change

the world one day.”

“Compared to Columbia,

the atmosphere in Barnard

classes tends to be warmer

and more collaborative.”

First- year students

must take a writing

course, a first-

year seminar,

and a physical

education class.

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BARNARD COLLEGE 55

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

teaching assistants. In fact, Barnard professors enjoy Columbia’s proximity almost

as much as undergraduates, and each year one- third of the full- time faculty teaches

in graduate departments throughout the university. Still, faculty members focus on

their teaching responsibilities to undergraduates first, and a chemistry major calls

the quality of instruction “impeccable.” Undergraduate research is also a priority at

Barnard, especially in the sciences, and often occurs within guided internships, col-

loquia, and seminar courses. “From research in labs to internships at the Met, there

is no shortage of amazing opportunities outside of the classroom for Barnard stu-

dents in New York City,” cheers a junior. Three- quarters of students complete

internships before they graduate. Beyond Barnard, which connects students with

internship, career, and other postgraduate opportunities, receives positive reviews.

“Barnard students are smart, driven, strong go- getters who are going to change

the world one day,” asserts a senior. Twenty- nine percent of Barnard students are

New York natives, and 13 percent are international. Asian Americans make up

20 percent of the student body, Black students 6 percent, Hispanics/Latinas 15 per-

cent, and multiracial students 8 percent. Students are mostly liberal and politically

active. Barnard does not offer merit or athletic scholarships, but it does commit to a

need- blind admissions process for domestic first- year applicants and to meet admit-

ted students’ full demonstrated financial need.

Seventy- four percent of Barnard students live in the dorms, which have come

a long way in recent years: there’s an 18- story Barnard dormitory tower, plus one

dorm complex and eight off- campus apartment buildings. Nonresidents must be

signed in by a resident, and entries are always

guarded, so students say they feel safe. “The

dorms are clean, comfortable, spacious (mostly!),

and very well maintained,” reports a senior.

Barnard guarantees four years of housing to

enrolling first- years, which one student says is

“a relief considering how difficult and expensive it can be to find an apartment in

New York City.” Seniors get the best rooms through a lottery system. All students

must buy a meal plan, which may also be used at Columbia. “The college has

created a Being Barnard program that teaches students how to recognize sexual

assault and how to handle it both as a potential victim and as a passerby,” explains

a junior.

When it comes to social life, students tend to divide their time between the

campus and the city. “Most of the social life takes place around campus,” a junior

says, “but you obviously have all of New York City to explore.” Traditions include

Big Sub in the fall, when a 700- foot- long sub sandwich is assembled throughout

campus and everyone grabs a piece, and Midnight Breakfast the night before finals

begin, when deans and administrators serve up eggs and waffles in the student

center. Barnard women interested in Greek life are allowed to join sororities at

Columbia. Alcohol is permitted in residential spaces for those of legal age, and stu-

dents seeking parties head next door to Columbia or bars in Morningside Heights,

but an English major notes, “This is not a school where students go out every night.

Maybe once a weekend, or every other weekend.” Many of the city’s cultural offer-

ings are free to students with their school ID. Road trips are infrequent, as not many

students have cars, but when they happen, destinations range from Washington,

D.C., to Boston, easily reached by train and plane.

Barnard athletes compete in the Division I Ivy League conference alongside their

peers enrolled at Columbia, and basketball, softball, tennis, track and field, and crew

are popular and competitive. The fencing team is also strong. Columbia’s marvelous

gym, co- ed intramurals, and club sports are also available; the women’s ultimate

Frisbee and rugby clubs are particularly popular with Barnard students.

Several 4– 1 pathways

allow students to earn

a bachelor’s degree

from Barnard and

a master’s degree

from Columbia.

“Most of the social life

takes place around campus,

but you obviously have

all of New York City to

explore.”

Traditions include

Midnight Breakfast

the night before finals

begin, when deans and

administrators serve

up eggs and waffles in

the student center.

Overlaps

Brown, Columbia,

Pomona,

Swarthmore,

Wellesley,

University of

Chicago, Smith,

NYU

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56 BATES COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Students see Barnard as having “the supportive community of a small liberal arts

women’s college, the resources of a large research institution through Columbia,

and the infinite opportunities of New York City right outside the gates,” in the

words of one proud Barnard woman. It’s a winning combination that turns out well-

rounded students ready to leap toward the future.

If You Apply To ›

Barnard: Early decision, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Accepts applications from

students who consistently live and identify as women. Please consult Barnard’s website for the most up- to- date information

regarding standardized test requirements.

Bates College

23 Campus Avenue, Lewiston, ME 04240

Bowdoin got rid of its frats; Bates never had them, and therein hangs a tale. With its

long- held tradition of egalitarianism and sense of community, Bates is a kindred spirit

to Quaker institutions such as Haverford and Swarthmore. A four- week spring term

helps make Bates a leader in studying abroad. Boasts a pioneering debate team. Blue-

collar Lewiston is not a draw, but New England countryside is within arm’s reach.

Founded by abolitionists in 1855, Bates College takes pride in its heritage as a haven

for seekers of guidance, freedom, and justice, and it aims to help students find a

broader purpose for their lives. The college’s 4– 4– 1 calendar offers ample opportu-

nity for study abroad, even for just four weeks at year’s end. Its small size also means

student/faculty interaction is plentiful, and close friendships are easily formed.

The Bates campus features a mix of Georgian and Federal buildings and Victorian

homes spread out over the grassy lawns of Lewiston. Over the last two decades, Bates

has transformed its campus core: the college has converted two former student res-

idence halls into key academic buildings, renovated historic Victorian homes into

student residences, turned one of the country’s earliest college football fields into

a multisport turf field, and opened a state- of- the- art science center for the biology,

chemistry, and neuroscience departments.

Bates emphasizes a broad- based education in the liberal arts. In addition to a

writing- intensive first- year seminar, students take at least one class in each of five

Modes of Inquiry: analysis and critique, creative process and production, histori-

cal and social inquiry, scientific reasoning, and quantitative and formal reasoning.

All students select a major and a second area of study, which may be a minor, a

second major, or a general education concentration (GEC). Bates’s GECs consist of

four interrelated courses structured around a central theme, such as Class, Inequity,

Poverty, and Justice; Globalization; and Queer Studies. More than 75 concentra-

tions are available, and they may fall within one department or program or may be

about all seniors write a thesis,” says a chemistry major. “Some are semester- long,

while others are yearlong, depending on the department and what you want to do.”

The Ladd Library is often crowded with students who choose to write a thesis or

produce an equivalent research, service, performance, or studio project.

While Bates was a pioneer in not requiring standardized tests for admission,

that doesn’t mean its standards are lax. “The academic standard for an institution

Website: www .bates .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,790

Undergraduates: 1,790

Male/Female: 47/53

Financial Aid: 41%

Pell Grant: 12%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 26%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 8,273

Accepted: 14%

Enrolled: 43%

Grad in 6 Years: 93%

Returning Freshmen: 93%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (855) 228- 3755

Email Address: admission @

bates .edu

Strong Programs:

Psychology

Politics

Economics

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BATES COLLEGE 57

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

such as Bates is high, and students are held to that standard in all aspects across

all major and minor disciplines,” says a junior. The most popular majors include

psychology, politics, economics, history, and environmental studies, and these

are also among Bates’s best. The music and art departments benefit from the Olin

Arts Center, which houses a performance hall, gallery, recording studio, art stu-

dios, and practice rooms. Interdisciplinary programs at Bates include rhetoric, film,

and screen studies; Earth and climate sciences; and gender and sexuality studies.

Professors teach all courses, including lab and discussion sections, and 63 percent

of classes enroll fewer than 20 students. “The professors are always so accessible

and make a real effort to get to know their students on a personal basis,” one

senior states.

For those whose horizons extend beyond the charms of Lewiston, Bates offers

study abroad opportunities in more than 80 foreign locations, and 65 percent of stu-

dents take advantage of them. Bates’s 4– 4– 1 calendar allows for a four- week short

term at the end of the academic year, and stu-

dents may use this term to focus on a single sub-

ject of interest, frequently off campus. Recent

examples include geological fieldwork in the

Northern Rockies; marine biological studies at stations on the coast of Maine; and art,

theater, and music studies in New York City and Europe. A “purposeful work” initia-

tive includes practitioner- taught courses that, in an effort to blend philosophical and

pragmatic themes, apply classroom lessons to real- world problems, such as finding

mentors and reflecting on career paths that promote personal satisfaction.

Nine percent of Bates students come from Maine, 9 percent arrive from foreign

countries, and many others hail from Massachusetts, California, and New York.

“Students at Bates are intelligent, quirky, and eager to try new things,” a student

says. The administration has slowly been making Bates more diverse, and Black stu-

dents currently account for 5 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 9 per-

cent, Asian Americans 6 percent, and multiracial students 8 percent. With 12 percent

of first- year students qualifying for Pell Grants, socioeconomic diversity is low as

well. Students are drawn to social and political causes, and a French major reports,

“Diversity is the biggest social issue on campus.” There are no merit or athletic

scholarships available, although the college does guarantee to meet 100 percent of

the demonstrated financial need of all students.

Ninety- two percent of Bates students live on campus, as housing is guaranteed for

four years, and singles, doubles, triples, quads, and suites are available. “Housing is

great here,” a student cheers. Students report that

the campus dining hall offers tasty fare, with sev-

eral stations ranging from brick- oven pizza and

pasta to a vegan bar. Students say campus security

is visible and more than adequate. “Given the

nature of a small campus, students know a majority of the officers’ names and do not

feel intimidated to approach them about a problem,” explains a history major.

Since there’s not much to do in Lewiston (population 37,000), weekend diver-

sions mostly occur on campus. “Whether it is parties, comedians, movies, or bands,

there is always something to do for everyone on campus,” a first- year student says.

The Chase Hall Programming Board, run by students, plans many of the social

events, including an annual gala. Without a Greek system, college alcohol policies

are fairly loose, a student says, and a ban on hard liquor is often ignored. Barbecues

and clambakes are big when the weather is nice, and the annual Winter Carnival

includes a ski shredding competition, ice skating, and the Puddle Jump, where a

hole is cut in the ice on Lake Andrews and students plunge in. Students with cars

can easily road- trip to the outlet stores in Freeport and Kittery, Maine. Other popular

(continued)

History

Environmental Studies

Music

Art

“The academic standard for

an institution such as Bates

is high.”

Bates offers study

abroad opportunities

in more than 80

foreign locations.

“The professors make a

real effort to get to know

their students on a

personal basis.”

Everyone gets excited

for matches against

Bowdoin and Colby,

especially when it

comes to basketball,

football, and lacrosse.

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58 BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

destinations include Bar Harbor in Acadia National Park, or “Portland for great

food,” says a senior. Montreal and Boston are not far, and neither are the ski slopes

of Vermont and New Hampshire. The Outing Club hosts weekend trips into the

great Maine outdoors.

Bates’s 31 varsity Bobcat teams compete in Division III, except for the ski team,

which is Division I. Everyone gets excited for matches against Bowdoin and Colby,

especially when it comes to basketball, football, and lacrosse. The women’s rowing

team has won five national championships in the

last eight years. The intramural program, organized

by students, is “strong and spirited” and attracts a

large number of participants, with ice hockey, ulti-

mate Frisbee, soccer, and rugby being some of the

favorites. Bates is home of the famed undergraduate debate organization the

Brooks Quimby Debate Council. Founded in 1855 when completing a public

debate was a graduation requirement, the team was one of the first in the nation

to go co- ed and to include Black students. Bates was also the first American insti-

tution to debate with foreign universities, and the team continues to achieve

national success today.

If you can stand the cold and the silent, starry nights, Bates can be a good

choice. With caring professors, a small student body, a focus on the liberal arts, and

a free- spirited culture, students quickly become big fans. “I came to Bates for the

people,” says a sophomore. “The friends you make here will remain your friends

well beyond your final days at Bates.”

“Whether it is parties,

comedians, movies, or

bands, there is always

something to do.”

Overlaps

Colby, Bowdoin,

Hamilton,

Wesleyan,

Connecticut

College,

Middlebury,

Haverford,

Swarthmore

If You Apply To ›

Bates: Early decision I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

Baylor University

Waco, TX 76798

The largest and best- endowed Baptist university anywhere, Baylor has set its sights

on becoming one of the top research universities. Atmosphere is avowedly Christian.

Lots of school spirit, especially at Saturday afternoon home football games.

Baylor University offers students a solid Christian- influenced education at a bar-

gain price. The university was founded in 1845, 10 months before Texas became

a state, and its Baptist tradition fosters a strong sense of community among stu-

dents and faculty. The school’s strategic plan, Illuminate, has transformed the

university by lowering the student/teacher ratio, renovating residence halls, and

investing in resources to become a top- tier research university while enhancing its

Christian identity. “Baylor’s commitment to academic excellence and an incred-

ible alumni network ensures a great education and a chance to get a job,” lauds

a junior.

The 1,000- acre Baylor campus abuts the historic Brazos River near downtown

Waco, Texas (population 140,000). The Georgian architectural style emphasizes the

gracious tradition of the aristocratic Old South, and the central part of campus,

the quadrangle, was built when Baylor moved from Independence, Texas, in 1886.

The campus has been witness to a number of renovations and new construction,

Website: www .baylor .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 18,693

Undergraduates: 14,885

Male/Female: 40/60

Financial Aid: 94%

Pell Grant: 16%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 48%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 40,753

Accepted: 46%

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BAYLOR UNIVERSITY 59

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

including the Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center and the $185 million Foster

Basketball Pavilion, scheduled to open in 2024.

Core requirements in the College of Arts and Sciences include a standard dis-

tribution of coursework in several liberal arts areas as well as two religion courses

and two semesters of Chapel, ranging from a traditional worship service to Chapel

experiences where students identify communities and connections that resonate

with them. All new students take a New Student Experience course in the fall, and

everyone completes a Cultural Events Experience. The Honors College oversees the

honors program (which offers opportunities for course integration and indepen-

dent research) and the University Scholars Program (which waives most distribution

requirements).

Of Baylor’s 127 undergraduate degrees, some of the most popular include nurs-

ing, biology, health science studies, communication, and accounting. Computer

science, communication sciences and disorders, business, psychology, and neurosci-

ence programs are well regarded. More unusual

options include institutes focusing on environ-

mental studies and childhood learning disorders,

a minor in military studies, and a major and

minor in Great Texts, an interdisciplinary pro-

gram exploring “the richness and diversity of the

Western intellectual heritage.” The archaeology

and geosciences departments benefit from fossil-

and mineral- rich Texas prairies. Nine percent of students choose to study abroad

through over 100 programs on six continents; a new study and intern semester in

London for business students is available for up to 25 applicants.

Students say that Baylor’s greatest strengths are a sense of community rooted in

its emphasis on Christianity, as well as the faculty’s focus on teaching and research.

Baylor’s hefty $2 billion endowment is the largest among the nation’s Baptist-

affiliated schools. Administrators strive to keep classes small— 49 percent have fewer

than 20 students. Full professors often teach freshman courses, and opportunities

for mentored research abound. “While a lot is expected of us, professors are willing

to help and students work together to help one another excel academically,” says an

environmental health science major.

“The students at Baylor tend to be kind, involved, and driven,” says a finance

and economics major. “They differ from some of our closest rivals mainly because of

the spiritual influence that many students tend to have and seek out.” Fifty- nine

percent of undergraduates are Texans and 27 per-

cent are Baptist; 3 percent are international.

Black students account for 5 percent of the stu-

dent body, Hispanics/Latinos 16 percent, Asian

Americans 9 percent, and multiracial students 5 percent. The university has launched

several initiatives to increase and support diversity on campus, including cultural

competence training for students, faculty, and staff and programs supporting first-

generation students. Students vie for numerous academic scholarships, averaging

$19,150, and more than 400 athletic scholarships in 19 varsity sports.

As might be expected on such a conservative, religious campus, dorms are single

sex and have limited visitation privileges, which draws complaints from many of

the 29 percent of students who call them home. The Faculty- in- Residence program

houses one faculty member in each residence hall who plans special events and sup-

ports “learning and faith development.” Upperclassmen look off campus for cheaper

housing with private rooms and fewer rules, but there has been a push for more

students to stay on campus with the recent construction of three residence halls

with apartment- style rooms. Students say they feel safe on campus with frequent

(continued)

Enrolled: 18%

Grad in 6 Years: 81%

Returning Freshmen: 90%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (254) 710- 3435

Email Address: admissions @

baylor .edu

Strong Programs:

Computer Science

Communication Sciences and

Disorders

Business

Psychology

Neuroscience

Geosciences

Nursing

Biology

“The students at Baylor

differ from some of our

closest rivals mainly

because of the spiritual

influence that many

students tend to have and

seek out.”

“Common Grounds, an on-

campus coffee shop, hosts

concerts most weekends.”

Full professors

often teach

freshman courses,

and opportunities

for mentored

research abound.

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60 BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

police patrols. Based on its religious tenets, Baylor has received an exemption from

some federal protections relating to LGBTQ+ students. Nevertheless, new leadership

at the university has affirmed its responsibility to serve the needs of all students

regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity and, according to the administra-

tion, has implemented “more than 100 improvements to infrastructure, policies,

and procedures,” including sexual assault training and prevention programs. “I have

watched Baylor learn to address its shortcomings and challenges instead of ignoring

them,” remarks a senior.

Nineteen percent of Baylor’s men and 35 percent of the women belong to a fra-

ternity or sorority, and frats dominate the strong off- campus party scene. “Greek

organizations are a big part of the culture at Baylor,” reports a student. “Many stu-

dents go to parties and violate the drug and alcohol policies.” Alcohol is not served

on campus or at campus- sponsored events. Students may also join more than 330

other student organizations, most of which involve a community service require-

ment. “Common Grounds, an on- campus coffee shop, hosts concerts most week-

ends,” says one student. “The movies are popular (a ticket costs $5 with a student

ID).” Easy road trips include Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Bryan/College Station, and

beaches at Galveston, South Padre Island, and Corpus Christi. Most destinations are

within a two- and- a- half- hour drive, students say, making a set of wheels a big help,

if not a necessity.

Highlights of Baylor’s social calendar include the weekly Dr Pepper Hour with

free ice cream floats, and Diadeloso (Day of the Bear), when classes are canceled for

a day in April in favor of a campuswide celebration. Christmas on 5th Street, orga-

nized by Student Life, gives students an opportunity to enjoy the annual Christmas

tree lighting, concert, and other holiday festivities. The school claims to have the

largest collegiate homecoming parade in the nation.

When it comes to football, remember: you’re in Texas. The Division I Baylor

Bears play in the $266 million McLane Stadium. Freshmen wear special custom jer-

seys to games and take the field before the players, then sit together as a pack. “It’s

a very awesome part of the freshman experience,” one student says. But recently it’s

the basketball teams that are generating the most excitement. The women’s team

advanced to their 19th straight NCAA tournament in 2023, and the men dominated

their regular season championship in 2022. Acrobatics and tumbling have claimed

several national titles in recent years. Big 12 Conference winners include football,

men’s tennis, and men’s and women’s basketball. For weekend warriors, the McLane

Student Life Center offers one of the tallest rock- climbing walls in Texas. The uni-

versity maintains a small marina for kayaking and paddleboating, and several lakes

with good beaches, fishing, and watersports are nearby. Popular intramurals include

flag football, volleyball, and the country’s largest collegiate dodgeball tournament;

35 club sports are another big draw.

“Baylor is a Baptist institution that has been 100 percent commissioned to do

God’s work in education,” boasts one student. Students looking to focus on strong

academics, community involvement, and discovering their vocational calling may

find Baylor a perfect fit.

Highlights of Baylor’s

social calendar

include the weekly

Dr Pepper Hour with

free ice cream floats.

Overlaps

Southern

Methodist, Texas

A&M, UT Austin,

Texas Tech,

Texas Christian,

University of

Houston, Texas

State, Rice

If You Apply To ›

Baylor: Early decision, early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult

Baylor’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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BELOIT COLLEGE 61

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Beloit College

700 College Street, Beloit, WI 53511

BEST

BUY

A small Midwestern college known for freethinking students, international focus,

and ever- growing emphasis on practical, hands- on experiences. Wisconsin location

makes Beloit easier to get into than comparable schools in sexier places. Well-

known anthropology and creative writing programs are among the best in the nation.

Beloit College remains dedicated to the liberal arts and sciences but is increasingly

focused on connecting its brand of liberal education to career preparation and pro-

fessional success, encouraging students to pursue diverse hands- on learning expe-

riences. Known for attracting liberal freethinkers in the 1960s and ’70s, the school

has steered back toward the mainstream. What hasn’t changed is its emphasis

on inclusion, understanding, and the world beyond the United States. “To really

enjoy Beloit, you should be open to new ideas, concepts, and people,” advises an

education and youth studies major. “You will learn how to think critically about

your positions and beliefs and work to have a deeper understanding of the world

as a whole.”

Beloit was founded by transplanted New Englanders in 1846 when Wisconsin

was still a territory. Its 40- acre campus is a Northeastern- style oasis an hour’s drive

from Madison and Milwaukee and less than two hours from Chicago. Academic

and administrative buildings sit on one side, with residence halls on the other.

Nineteenth- century Federal and Romanesque architecture dominates, with a few

modern facilities mixed in, like the LEED Platinum– certified Sanger Center for

the Sciences. The college’s newest facility is a 120,000- square- foot student union

and recreation center called the Powerhouse; the $38 million project repurposed a

defunct power plant on the Rock River, adjacent to campus.

In the absence of core requirements, students complete three writing- intensive

courses, a quantitative reasoning class, one intercultural literacy course, a service-

learning experience, and a capstone experience. In addition, Beloiters tackle classes

across five domains that focus on systems, arts, behavior, the universe, and texts.

To satisfy an “Experience” requirement, students may undertake an internship, an

entrepreneurial or research project, or a designated course with a similar compo-

nent, such as field work or travel.

To better connect some of Beloit’s business- and health- based liberal arts curricu-

lum offerings to applicable career paths, in 2023 Beloit created two new schools, one

for business and one for health sciences, which offer new integrated majors, minors,

and courses— such as a “Medieval Manager” course

taught by a literature professor that focuses on

management from a historical perspective. Beloit

has also created Impact Beloit to help connect stu-

dents to community- based learning and internship opportunities. Business and eco-

nomics, anthropology, and creative writing are signature programs at Beloit, and the

geology, international relations, theater, and dance programs are also popular and well

regarded. Biology, psychology, and political science enroll high numbers too. Among

the more distinctive options are a museum studies minor, enhanced by hands- on expe-

rience in the college’s Wright Museum of Art and Logan Museum of Anthropology,

which was established in 1894 and emphasizes social justice in museum practices.

Notable interdisciplinary offerings include majors in health and society and critical

identity studies. A 3– 2 engineering dual degree is available with WashU in St. Louis and

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Website: www .beloit .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 933

Undergraduates: 933

Male/Female: 48/52

Financial Aid: 98%

Pell Grant: 36%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 70%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 3,462

Accepted: 66%

Enrolled: 10%

Grad in 6 Years: 71%

Returning Freshmen: 82%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (608) 363- 2500

Email Address: admiss @

beloit .edu

Strong Programs:

Anthropology

Geology

International Relations

Creative Writing

Theater

Dance

Health and Society

Critical Identity Studies

Economics

Museum Studies

“Mentors and professors

here love to challenge you

to find your own answers.”

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62 BELOIT COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The academic milieu is described as challenging but not competitive. “Students

are expected to do significant work— papers, research, symposiums— but there is

also an atmosphere of meaningful collaboration,” says one student. Teaching is the

faculty’s first priority, and 72 percent of classes have fewer than 20 students.

“Mentors and professors here love to challenge you to find your own answers,” says

a music major. The Advanced Mentoring Program matches each incoming student

with a faculty mentor, and students may join any of eight broad Career Channels—

ranging from Business & Entrepreneurship to Health & Healing, Justice & Rights,

and Sports, Fitness, and Recreation— to explore potential career options through

interactions and experiences with faculty, peers, and alumni working in their fields

of interest.

Thanks to Beloit’s emphasis on hands- on learning, opportunities for practical

cocurricular experiences abound. Budding scientists may conduct biological and

biomedical research at Northwestern and Rush Universities in Chicago. The Center

for Entrepreneurship in Liberal Education in downtown Beloit enables students from

any major to plan and execute original entrepreneurial projects. Thirty- five percent

of students study or do research abroad, choosing from programs in 60 countries.

“Students at Beloit will make anything happen and we love to get involved,”

observes an international relations and economics double major. While Beloit may

not be as far- out as it once was, the student body is still decidedly liberal. Eighteen

percent of students hail from Wisconsin, and

16 percent come from abroad. “I really love the

attention they give to international students

here,” praises a sophomore. Hispanics/Latinos

represent 17 percent of the total, Black students 9 percent, Asian Americans 3 per-

cent, and multiracial students 4 percent. The Sustained Dialogue program encour-

ages conversations about diversity and identity. Merit scholarships averaging

$40,140 are available and 36 percent of freshmen are Pell- eligible. Beloit also guar-

antees academically qualified residents of several states that it will match the in-

state tuition rate of the flagship public university in their home state.

Ninety percent of Beloit students live in the 38 on- campus housing facilities,

where they’re required to remain for three years, and an anthropology major notes

“the school doesn’t charge more for singles, which is a huge relief.” Fraternities

attract 13 percent of the men, and sororities draw 10 percent of the women.

Numerous special- interest houses cater to those interested in world languages, the

arts, anthropology, and other disciplines, as well as to student organizations. Food

in the Commons dining hall is said to be average, but dietary restrictions are accom-

modated and options in Grace’s Place and Hamilton’s are well received. “Beloit

offers strong support by way of mental health services,” reports a junior. “They offer

unlimited free sessions at the Health & Wellness Center as well as free online ther-

apy services.” Campus safety gets good ratings too.

Social life is almost entirely campus- based. “On the weekends there are always

events going on such as lectures, music groups, movie showings, theater productions,

dance shows, and parties,” says one junior. Highly anticipated annual events include

the Folk and Blues Fall Music Festival, which

brings jazz, reggae, folk, and blues bands to

campus, and Spring Day, when the weather finally

warms and classes give way to “food trucks,

bouncy houses, and different attractions for us to

have a chill day,” says a senior. Traditional Bell

Runs involve running from the quad to a bell and back, disencumbered of clothing.

Students describe the party scene as very low- key, and Greek organizations often team

up with special- interest houses and other student clubs to throw parties. An

The college’s

newest facility is

a 120,000- square-

foot student union

and recreation

center called the

Powerhouse.

“I really love the attention

they give to international

students here.”

The Center for

Entrepreneurship in

Liberal Education

in downtown

Beloit enables

students to plan

and execute original

entrepreneurial

projects.

“We have a boathouse very

close to campus [where]

we can go kayaking,

canoeing, make s’mores,

and more.”

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BENNINGTON COLLEGE 63

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

on- campus pub, C-Haus, draws budding musicians who perform for their fellow stu-

dents. And while the school enforces state drinking laws, it’s “not overly strict” says

a senior.

Beloit (population 37,000) is a small, historically industrial city that has under-

gone a revitalization in recent years. A river walk connects the campus to down-

town and its restaurants, bars, shops, and a popular farmers market. “Groups such

as Habitat for Humanity, Beloit Interaction Committee, and the Outreach Center

work hard to integrate students into the community,” says a sophomore. When in

need of a change of scenery, Beloiters take off for Chicago or the college town of

Madison, easily reached through a cheap regional bus service. For the outdoors-

minded, “We have a boathouse very close to campus [where] we can go kayaking,

canoeing, make s’mores, and much more,” enthuses a senior.

Sports at Beloit are played more for fun than glory, unless, of course, it’s a foot-

ball game against rival Ripon College. Among the school’s 18 Division III Buccaneers

squads, standouts in the Midwest Conference include women’s soccer, women’s

track and field, and baseball. Intramural ultimate Frisbee draws around a hundred

players and spectators, and intramural basketball, volleyball, and soccer are also

popular.

Beloit is a bundle of contradictions: a small liberal arts college in the heart of

Big Ten state university country, and an academic program that has an East Coast

rigor but a laid- back classroom vibe reflective of the friendly spirit of the Midwest.

Although the school continues to evolve, “the essential core of Beloit has stayed

the same,” says a senior. “It is still a campus full of artistic creators, unabashed

activists, and people who love making dorm- room forts. We’re still weird, and we

like it that way.”

An on- campus pub,

C-Haus, draws

budding musicians

who perform for their

fellow students.

Overlaps

Macalester,

Grinnell,

Reed, Oberlin,

Bennington, Knox,

Lake Forest,

St. Olaf, Lawrence,

University of

Wisconsin– Madison

If You Apply To ›

Beloit: Early decision, early action I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with

supplement. Applicants are invited to submit nonbinary gender identity and pronouns.

Bennington College

Bennington, VT 05201- 6003

Known for top- notch performing arts and lavish attention on every student. Arts

programs rely heavily on faculty who are practitioners in their field. Slightly less

competitive than Bard and Sarah Lawrence, comparable to Hampshire. With just

under 700 undergraduates, Bennington is one- third the size of most liberal arts

colleges.

Bennington College is a school where architects are teachers, biologists sculpt, and

a sociologist might work on Wall Street. The college’s focus is on learning by doing.

Since its founding in 1932, Bennington has pioneered in self- directed education and

emphasized fieldwork and personal relationships with professors— an approach that

sets it apart even from other liberal arts colleges of similar (read: small) size. Says

one junior, “If you want an education you can shape yourself and you want that

education to transcend your homework and the classroom, this is a great place to

go to school.”

Bennington sits on 470 acres at the foot of Vermont’s Green Mountains. The

Website: www .bennington .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 811

Undergraduates: 708

Male/Female: 31/69

Financial Aid: 98%

Pell Grant: 20%

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64 BENNINGTON COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

campus was once an active dairy farm, and a converted barn houses many class-

rooms and administrative spaces. But don’t let the quaint New England setting fool

you. The Dickinson Science Building boasts high- tech equipment for aspiring chem-

ists, biologists, environmental scientists, and geneticists. A recent renovation of the

central Commons building added new student social spaces, larger dining facilities,

and ADA- accessible classrooms.

Thanks to its focus on John Dewey– style experiential learning, Bennington’s

academic structure differs from that of a typical college or university. Rather than

selecting from preset majors, students design their own cross- disciplinary course of

study (known as their “Plan”). There are some

academic requirements, including the Field

Work Term, in which students spend seven

weeks each January and February conducting an

internship or other work experience in a field of

interest and a location of their choice. “That has

been especially important, as it helped me build

connections and develop useful skills I would not have developed only in the class-

room,” says a video and sound art major. Students receive narrative evaluations

instead of grades (although they do have the option to request grades in addition to

the evaluations). Even Bennington’s application process is nontraditional. In lieu of

the Common Application, prospective students may choose to submit a “dimen-

sional application”— an open- form application that allows them to choose any

materials, in any format, that they believe best convey why they are well suited to

attend Bennington.

The most popular areas of study include visual and performing arts, espe-

cially drama and music; society, culture, and thought; cultural studies and lan-

guages; literature; and psychology. Computer science and mathematics are

strong, too, although they attract a smaller

number of students than many of the college’s

programs. A notable offering in architecture is

heavily arts- oriented. “Half of the students

here do work in the arts, whether it’s theater or

dance or studio art,” says a sophomore. Consistent with Bennington’s judgment

that traditional academics have become “insular and self- perpetuating,” the

Center for the Advancement of Public Action invites students to put the world’s

most pressing problems at the center of their education via classwork and

hands- on workshops. Closely related are the “pop- up mini- courses” that faculty

offer in response to unfolding events or current cultural phenomena. Recent

topics of these three- week courses, often suggested by students, have included

The War in Ukraine and Confronting Fascism in the Wake of an Insurrection.

Cross- registration options at nearby Williams College expand students’ access to

course offerings; 8 percent of Bennington students study abroad.

“While I wouldn’t consider Bennington rigorous in the traditional sense, its

rigor is provided from really finding yourself through your work,” explains a litera-

ture student. Sixty- three percent of courses enroll fewer than 20 students. Without

academic departments, the faculty works to provide students with a well- rounded

academic foundation. “Professors work independently with students on their per-

sonal trajectory of progress,” says a student studying conflict resolution. The First-

Year Forum is a yearlong advising program that acclimates students to Bennington’s

approach to academics.

“Bennington prides itself on being a place for the weird, independent kid to find

a community,” remarks a literature and anthropology student. Curiosity and excite-

ment about exploration and experimentation will take you far here, and if you lean

(continued)

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 52%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 2,801

Accepted: 45%

Enrolled: 17%

Grad in 6 Years: 70%

Returning Freshmen: 84%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 833- 6845

Email Address: admissions @

bennington .edu

Strong Programs:

Visual and Performing Arts

Society, Culture, and Thought

Cultural Studies and

Languages

Literature

Psychology

Computer Science

Mathematics

Architecture

“[The Field Work Term]

helped me build

connections and develop

useful skills I would not

have developed only in the

classroom.”

“Half of the students

here do work in the arts,

whether it’s theater or

dance or studio art.”

Faculty offer “pop-

up mini- courses” in

response to unfolding

events or current

cultural phenomena.

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BENNINGTON COLLEGE 65

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

liberal in the voting booth, so much the better. Just 5 percent of undergrads are from

Vermont, and a surprising 16 percent are international. Racial and ethnic diver-

sity are a challenge: Black students account for only 2 percent of the student body,

Hispanics/Latinos 10 percent, Asian Americans 1 percent, and multiracial students

5 percent. Women outnumber men 2 to 1, but students report that the campus is

diverse in terms of gender identity and sexual orientation. Merit scholarships worth

an average of $36,400 are awarded to qualified students; no athletic scholarships are

available.

As Bennington lacks traditional departments, requirements, and even faculty

tenure, it’s probably not surprising that the school also eschews traditional dorms.

Virtually all students live in one of the college’s co- ed houses; a dozen are white New

England clapboard, and six are more modern. Each house holds 30 to 40 people with

two appointed chairs to govern house affairs. “Each house has a distinct history and

personality,” says a student. The college dining hall is “reasonably accommodating”

of food allergies and special diets, according to a junior, and the meals are usually

tasty. “It’s not the type of dining hall to serve only pizza or chicken nuggets,”

informs a senior. While students say the campus is generally safe, most agree that

student support services, from public safety to health and counseling services to

academic services, are suffering from understaffing and sexual assault policies “can

feel very ineffective,” laments one student.

With no Greek system, social life happens in the residential houses. “All stu-

dents are invited to the big house parties that happen on Fridays and Saturdays. The

themes are fun and creative, and everyone gets dressed up,” explains a creative writ-

ing student. “There’s no pressure to drink or

smoke, but many do.” Students say campus alco-

hol policies focus on keeping them safe rather

than punishing them. Twice each year, the col-

lege turns part of its huge Visual and Performing

Arts complex into an indoor roller rink for a Rollerama party. For 12 hours one day

each May, the campus celebrates spring with Sunfest, which features music, games,

and other events. And during the last week of each term, when (in lieu of final

exams) students present their work to faculty, the ringing of the Commons bell at

midnight calls weary students to the dining hall, where professors, staff, and the

college president serve up French toast and other breakfast favorites.

Although the vibe on Bennington’s campus is liberal and cosmopolitan, the

neighboring town of the same name— four miles away, with a population of

15,000— is far more conservative, typical of rural New England. For that reason, one

student says, students often avoid it, and “when you combine the hilltop isolation

of the campus, the result is a sense of an enclave.” Still, the area offers some good

restaurants, coffee shops, galleries, and a lake with a public beach. Students also find

their way into the community through volunteer work in local schools and home-

less shelters.

Sports aren’t a big focus, and Bennington has no varsity teams. Even so, 15 per-

cent of students compete in intramural and club sports, with soccer, dodgeball,

basketball, and badminton proving the most popular. Bennington’s rugged loca-

tion is ideal for outdoor adventures, and an active outdoor collective takes students

hiking, rock climbing, white- water rafting, and camping. Ski slopes beckon in the

colder months.

As the first school in the nation to grant the arts equal status with other disci-

plines, Bennington offers a novel, participatory, and hands- on approach. Whether

they’re painters or writers, musicians or scientists, sculptors, dancers, or some com-

bination thereof, what Bennington students have in common is self- motivation and

a real thirst for knowledge. “There is a level of independence necessary to thrive in

Bennington has

pioneered in self-

directed education

and emphasized

fieldwork and

personal relationships

with professors.

“Professors work

independently with

students on their personal

trajectory of progress.”

For 12 hours one day

each May, the campus

celebrates spring

with Sunfest, which

features music, games,

and other events.

Overlaps

Bard, Sarah

Lawrence, Oberlin,

Emerson, Skidmore,

Mount Holyoke,

Hampshire, Reed,

The New School

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66 BENTLEY UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

this very free environment,” advises a junior. “Many Bennington students are very

self- driven, and this type of personality tends to do best here.”

If You Apply To ›

Bennington: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application

with supplement. Applicants may submit an alternative “dimensional application” consisting of any collection of their work

they choose; under this option, transcripts are preferred but not required.

Bentley University

175 Forest Street, Waltham, MA 02452

Bentley means business— studying it, that is, in the context of strong liberal arts. Now

competes on even footing with archrival Babson. Offers both B.S. and B.A. degrees

and provides career- oriented internships to 95 percent of its students. Boasts a

scenic colonial- style campus with easy access to Boston and Harvard Square.

Bentley University is a midsized New England university that excels at turning out

students who are committed to taking their place among the ranks of future busi-

ness leaders. “Bentley prepares its students for the workplace by giving them compa-

rable experiences socially, academically, and— most importantly— professionally,”

says a sophomore. With the university’s solid courses in business, state- of- the- art

facilities, dedication to the liberal arts, and emphasis on service learning, students

find much to admire.

Bentley, which was founded in 1917 by Harry Clark Bentley, a prominent

accountant, is situated on 163 acres in suburban Waltham, Massachusetts, just

minutes west of bustling Boston. The dominant architectural style is Georgian,

and the majority of campus buildings are classically built in red brick. The Bentley

campus has three tiers. The north campus revolves around academics and features

a library, “smart” classrooms, and high- tech labs and academic centers. The main

campus centers on student life and is anchored by the 70,000- square- foot student

center. The south campus focuses on recreation and includes the Dana Athletic

Center and Bentley Arena. Residential housing is spread throughout each tier of

the campus.

Bentley has long been committed to producing well- rounded business stu-

dents, and this is reflected in the curriculum, which offers both B.S. and B.A.

tracks. Although certain requirements vary based on which track a student is on,

every student must complete both a general

business core (Business Dynamics) to develop

an understanding of how successful businesses

operate and an arts and sciences core (Context

and Perspectives) covering categories such as

Scientific Inquiry, Institutions and Power, and Globalization. All first- year stu-

dents take the Falcon Discovery Seminar, which is designed to help them with

their overall adjustment to college. Their seminar instructor also serves as their

academic advisor for the first three semesters. In addition, first- years take a

six- week Career Design Introduction Seminar to get on track early for internships

and jobs.

Not surprisingly, the most popular majors at Bentley are finance, marketing,

Website: www .bentley .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 4,430

Undergraduates: 4,015

Male/Female: 61/39

Financial Aid: 78%

Pell Grant: 14%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 51%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 9,662

Accepted: 58%

Enrolled: 20%

Grad in 6 Years: 88%

Returning Freshmen: 91%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 523- 2354

Email Address: ugadmission

@ bentley .edu

Strong Programs:

Finance

Marketing

Economics- Finance

Management

Accounting

Professional Sales

Computer Information Systems

Data Analytics

“Bentley prepares its

students for the workplace

by giving them comparable

experiences.”

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BENTLEY UNIVERSITY 67

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

economics- finance, management, and accountancy. Students seeking a B.S. degree

have their pick of more than a dozen disciplines, including majors in professional

sales, computer information systems, and data analytics, while those interested in

B.A. degrees can select from such fields as English, international affairs, sustain-

ability science, and health studies. In 2023, Bentley launched two new majors:

finance and technology (FinTech) and psychology. The FinTech major offers new

opportunities for students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in

this highly innovative field. The psychology major is unique in its integration

of business and science as students in the major examine multiple focal areas in

depth, including scientific inquiry and cultural differences. Motivated students

may choose the liberal studies major (LSM), a highly integrated second major

that is paired with a B.S. degree and requires a final project in the senior year.

Current LSM concentrations range from American studies to earth, environment,

and global sustainability to political economy and development. Those pursuing

B.A. degrees may opt to add a business studies major or minor to enhance their

business knowledge.

“Bentley is competitive in a sense because we are all career- driven and want to

do well in similar fields, but there is also a great sense of camaraderie,” says a soph-

omore. Twenty- three percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, but none have

more than 50, and group work is routine. Adjunct professors and senior lecturers

with professional expertise teach many of the courses, and “bring in real- world

examples from their current work and projects,” says a finance major. Students rave

about Bentley’s career services. “It really does take stress away when you have that

extra helping hand sourcing interviews/opportunities, teaching you the basic skills,

checking in, etc.,” says a senior.

As befits the university’s focus on the corporate world, 87 percent of undergrad-

uates complete at least one internship. In keeping with the university’s mission to

educate students to be active leaders in a global economy, the Cronin Office of

International Education offers semester, summer,

or weeklong faculty- led programs in more than

25 countries; many programs include intern-

ship and service- learning opportunities. The top

10 percent of students in each entering class are invited to participate in the honors

program, which tackles a variety of topics— from the ethics of genetic research to

analyzing complex financial crises— all in a seminar setting that is designed to pro-

mote discussion and debate.

“Bentley students are wealthy and privileged on average. Most share a common

drive and business savviness,” says a marketing major. Although half again as large

as rival Babson College, Bentley’s undergraduate student body is less diverse. Forty

percent of Bentley undergrads are from Massachusetts, and 13 percent are interna-

tional. Black students account for 4 percent of the student body, Asian Americans

10 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 11 percent, and multiracial students 3 percent. Bentley

has a conservative tenor, but for students, social and political issues generally take a

back seat to classes and internships. Merit scholarships averaging $19,700 are doled

out annually, and talented athletes vie for 211 athletic scholarships in 18 sports.

Through the BentleyFirst program, Massachusetts residents who are the first in their

families to go to college and whose family incomes are less than $125,000 per year

can attend Bentley for the same tuition rate as the state’s flagship public university,

UMass Amherst.

The university’s student residences include apartments, suites, and traditional

dormitories and house 76 percent of the student body. Ten percent of students

participate in living/learning communities, in which service learning is a big

emphasis. The dining hall food is not a selling point, but a junior says, “Meals at

The north campus

revolves around

academics and

features a library,

“smart” classrooms,

and high- tech labs and

academic centers.

“There is so much

involvement in Bentley’s

100- plus organizations.”

Ten percent of

students participate

in living/learning

communities, in which

service learning is

a big emphasis.

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68 BENTLEY UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Bentley have improved over time.” Students report feeling safe on campus, thanks

to an active police patrol, 24/7 safety escorts, and “Title IX staff who are in con-

stant contact with students and put on various events throughout the year,” says

a junior.

Students say the social scene begins on campus and spills out into the sur-

rounding areas. “There is so much involvement in Bentley’s 100- plus organiza-

tions,” says one student. “A group is bound to have an event on any given day.”

Sponsored events include the annual Back to Bentley and Spring Day festivals and

activities put on by various cultural groups, like Latin dance night. Practically the

entire student body shows up for Super Bingo, “which is like normal bingo, but

with awesome prizes like TVs and iPhones,” explains a sophomore. The Greek

system attracts 14 percent of the men and 26 percent of the women, and

Greeks and sports teams host frequent off- campus parties, but neither group

dominates the social scene. Students of legal age may have alcohol, but “peer

pressure is not an issue” for those who prefer not to imbibe, according to an

accounting major.

Waltham (population 64,000) may not have the cachet of nearby Boston,

but students say it has the basic amenities every college student craves: restau-

rants, bars, shops, and salons. “Overall, Waltham does not play a huge role in a

Bentley student’s daily way of life,” comments

one student. Those seeking a bit more action

take the campus shuttle to Harvard Square or

the T (subway) to the city, where students can

mix and mingle with peers from other local

colleges and universities. Jaunts to the beaches of New Hampshire, the ski resorts

of Vermont, and weekend trips to the Cape make for popular diversions

as well.

Competition at Bentley is not confined to the classroom; the university also

fields men’s and women’s varsity teams at the Division II level and a compet-

itive Division I men’s ice hockey team. The powerhouse women’s basketball

team makes regular appearances in the NCAA tournament. Other solid Falcon

teams include men’s basketball, women’s field hockey, and men’s golf. Students

get fired up anytime rivals Babson and Bryant take the field, and there is the

predictable T-shirt reading, “Friends don’t let friends go to Babson.” Popular

intramural and club sports include flag football, soccer, volleyball, and ultimate

Frisbee.

“Bentley is a school that will simulate the real world as much as possible so that its

students graduate prepared!” cheers one enthusiastic junior. Like the university itself,

Bentley students have a keen sense of who they are and where they’re headed. For

those students charting a course into the upper echelons of corporate America, Bentley

may be the first step to a long and fruitful career.

In 2023, Bentley

launched two new

majors: finance and

technology (FinTech)

and psychology.

“Overall, Waltham does

not play a huge role in a

Bentley student’s daily way

of life.”

Overlaps

Babson, Boston

College, Bryant,

Boston University,

Northeastern,

UMass Amherst,

UConn, Fordham

If You Apply To ›

Bentley: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult

Bentley’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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BOSTON COLLEGE 69

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

One of the main reasons that Boston is the ultimate college town. Set on a quiet hilltop

at the end of a T (subway) line, BC is a close second to Notre Dame in the pecking order

among true- blue Roman Catholics (though many students clamoring for a spot are

not aware of its religious ties). An estimated 70 percent of students identify as Roman

Catholic, compared to 50 percent at Georgetown and 80 percent at Notre Dame.

Boston College, one of the largest Roman Catholic schools in the country, is a study

in contrasts. The academics and the athletic teams are both well respected. The envi-

ronment is safely suburban, yet barely 20 minutes from Boston, the hub of the Eastern

seaboard’s college scene. The Jesuit influence on the college provides a guiding spirit

for campus life, but the social opportunities still seem endless. Despite the paradoxes

(or perhaps because of them), students at BC enjoy a rich college experience.

Don’t let the modest name fool you. Boston College is actually a research uni-

versity with nine schools and colleges. It has three campuses: the main campus at

Chestnut Hill, the Brighton campus across the street, and the Newton campus a

mile and a half away. The dominant architecture of the main campus (known as

“the Heights”) is Gothic Revival, with modern additions over the past several years.

There’s lots of grass and trees, not to mention a large, peaceful reservoir (perfect to

jog around) right in the front yard. The university recently completed a multiyear

master plan that doubled the size of the main campus with a new dorm, a field

house, a recreation center, and other facilities. The new Hoag Basketball Pavilion

opened in 2023.

Boston College was founded by the Jesuits in 1863 to teach the offspring of Irish

immigrants. These days, the college’s mission is to “educate skilled, knowledgeable,

and responsible leaders within each new generation.” To accomplish this goal, the

Core Curriculum requires courses not only in lit-

erature, natural science, history, philosophy,

social science, and theology, but also in writing,

mathematics, the arts, and cultural diversity, in

addition to specific requirements set by each

undergraduate school. Students in arts and sciences must also show proficiency in a

modern foreign language or classical language before graduation. Freshmen are

required to take a writing workshop in which each student develops a portfolio of

personal and academic writing and reads a wide range of texts. About a quarter of

students participate in the Capstone Program, choosing one of several seminars that

aim to give a “big picture” perspective to the college experience and students’ per-

sonal development.

The schools of arts and sciences, management, education and human develop-

ment, and nursing award bachelor’s degrees. Finance, economics, biology, and

political science are the most popular majors. Programs in management, nursing,

international studies, film studies, and theology are particularly well regarded. BC

recently launched a new undergraduate major in human- centered engineering, the

university’s only engineering program at any level. Outside the traditional class-

room at the McMullen Museum of Art, students find exhibitions, lectures, and gal-

lery tours. The Music Guild sponsors professional concerts throughout the year, and

music students emphasizing performance can take advantage of facilities equipped

with Steinways and Yamahas. Theater majors find a home in the 600- seat Robsham

Theater Arts Center, which produces eight student- directed productions each year.

Website: www .bc .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 14,734

Undergraduates: 9,484

Male/Female: 47/53

Financial Aid: 65%

Pell Grant: 12%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 46%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 40,494

Accepted: 17%

Enrolled: 35%

Grad in 6 Years: 91%

Returning Freshmen: 93%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (617) 552- 3100

Email Address: admission @

bc .edu

Strong Programs:

Management

Nursing

International Studies

Film Studies

Theology

Finance

Economics

Biology

Business

“I have certainly been

challenged by my

professors but also

supported.”

Freshmen are required

to take a writing

workshop in which

each student develops

a portfolio of personal

and academic writing.

Boston College

140 Commonwealth Avenue, Devlin Hall, Room 208, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

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70 BOSTON COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

BC students are serious about their work, but not excessively so, helping to create

a collaborative atmosphere. “If you are better at science than your roommate, you will

help her out,” states one senior, “and perhaps when it comes time to fulfill your phi-

losophy core requirement, her love of Plato will get you through the class.” Forty- nine

percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, and professors are praised for their pas-

sion and knowledge, as well as their accessibility. “I have certainly been challenged by

my professors but also supported, since they consistently make themselves available

outside of the classroom,” says one history major. The Jesuits on BC’s faculty (about 25

out of 880) exert an influence out of proportion to their numbers. “The philosophy,

theology, and ethics departments are the most important in setting the tone of the

campus, because they encourage the students to be open- minded,” says a freshman.

Students searching for out- of- the- ordinary offerings will be happy at BC. The

PULSE program provides participants with the opportunity to fulfill their philosophy

and theology requirements while engaging in social- service fieldwork at any of about

35 Boston organizations. The program reinforces

the Jesuit emphasis on community service and

sometimes inspires students to major in those

areas. About half of Boston College undergradu-

ates study internationally by the time they grad-

uate. BC offers nearly 60 academic programs in

more than 30 countries around the world, as well as three- week summer study abroad

programs. Students participating in the Undergraduate Faculty Research Fellows

Program spend an average of 100 hours per semester assisting faculty with serious

research, for which they are paid an hourly wage.

Twenty- three percent of BC undergraduates come from Massachusetts and

7 percent from abroad. Catholics comprise about 70 percent of the student body.

Black students constitute 5 percent, while Asian Americans make up 12 percent,

Hispanics/Latinos 11 percent, and multiracial students 3 percent. “The student body

is a socially conscious, environmentally responsible, academically oriented group on

the whole,” offers one student. “There is a pervasive spirit of compassion that runs

through the student body here.” Indeed, the Jesuit appeal for tolerance means that

students can find support and interaction even when approaching hot- button issues

that orthodox Catholicism frowns upon, such as homosexuality. Nearly 300 athletic

awards are doled out annually; merit scholarships are worth an average of $24,000.

Additionally, BC observes need- blind admissions and meets the full demonstrated

need of accepted students.

Eighty- one percent of BC students live in campus housing. When students are

admitted, they are notified whether they will get on- campus housing for three or

four years; most juniors with three- year guarantees live off campus or study abroad,

then return to campus for their final year. The city of Boston has a fairly reliable bus

and subway system to bring distant residents to campus; the few students who drive

to school are required to show that they need to park on campus. “The dorms are

comfortable and spacious,” says an international studies major. Students pay in

advance for a certain number of dining hall meals, served à la carte. “The food is

expensive,” notes one student, “but it is great quality.” The Stand Up BC program is

intended to combat the issue of campus sexual assault.

BC’s campus is replete with sporting events, movies, festivals, concerts, and plays.

As at other Jesuit institutions, there is no Greek system at BC, and “the social life is

much more inclusive” as a result, according to a senior. Those of legal age can drink

on campus but are only allowed to carry in enough beer or wine for personal con-

sumption. Spiritual retreats occur throughout the year at BC’s own retreat center on

the Charles River, 30 minutes from campus, and one student says, “Volunteer work

is huge.” Bars and clubs in Boston (“the college town of all college towns,” cheers

The traditional Eagles

football contest with

the Fighting Irish

of Notre Dame is

jokingly referred to

as the “Holy War.”

“The student body is

a socially conscious,

environmentally

responsible, academically

oriented group.”

The university recently

completed a multiyear

master plan that

doubled the size of

the main campus.

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BOSTON UNIVERSITY 71

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

a junior) are another big draw, along with Fenway Park. On weekends, especially in

the winter, the mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire beckon outdoorsy types.

Division I athletic events, especially football games, become social events, too,

with frequent tailgate and victory parties. The traditional Eagles football contest

with the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame is jokingly referred to as the “Holy War” and

makes for a popular road trip. BC meets fierce

competition from Atlantic Coast Conference

rivals Duke, Miami, Virginia Tech, and others,

and Boston University is the archrival when it

comes to ice hockey. Solid teams include men’s

and women’s ice hockey (six team members participated in the 2022 Olympics),

soccer, basketball, lacrosse, fencing, and golf. Intramural sports are huge here. Nearly

half of BC undergrads participate in 40 intramural and club sports, from basketball

and volleyball to skiing and rugby. Students even get the day off from classes to line

the edge of campus and cheer Boston Marathon runners up “Heartbreak Hill.”

Since its founding as a Jesuit institution, Boston College has been committed to

“educating students who will use their knowledge, talents, and abilities in the ser-

vice of others.” BC students spend four years fine- tuning the art of the delicate bal-

ance, finding ways to make old- fashioned morals relevant to life in the 21st century,

and finding time for fun while still tending to their academic performance.

“There is a pervasive spirit

of compassion that runs

through the student body

here.”

Overlaps

Georgetown,

Villanova,

Notre Dame,

Northeastern,

University of

Virginia, University

of Pennsylvania,

Boston University,

Harvard

If You Apply To ›

BC: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Apply to particular school

or program. Please consult BC’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Boston University

121 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215

One of the nation’s largest private universities and namesake to a city that boasts

more than 40 four- year colleges. Location adjacent to the Fenway is the promised

land for hordes of students from all over the world seeking a funky, artsy, youth-

oriented urban setting that is less in- your- face than New York City. More selective

than in the past and comparable to NYU.

Like NYU and USC, Boston University, founded by Methodists in 1839, is an inte-

gral part of the city it calls home (although it actually started in Vermont). The

school’s ample collection of nondescript high- rises stretches along bustling, four-

lane Commonwealth Avenue (which now has the city’s first protected bike lane)—

and so do thousands upon thousands of students. From aspiring actors, musicians,

journalists, and filmmakers, to future scientists, doctors, dentists, and entrepreneurs,

BU seems to offer something for everyone. A junior says, “You definitely walk away

from BU with a sense of accomplishment and individuality.”

The BU campus is an urban campus with the tree- lined side streets, which feature

quaint Victorian brownstones. Newer facilities include the Center for Computing &

Data Sciences, a 100 percent fossil- fuel-free building. BU continues its commitment

to diversity, equity, and inclusion through the Center for Antiracist Research, which

aims to develop research- based policies, advocacy campaigns, and educational pro-

grams to address the problems of racial inequity and injustice in the U.S.

Website: www .bu .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Private

Total Enrollment: 28,849

Undergraduates: 17,415

Male/Female: 42/58

Financial Aid: 53%

Pell Grant: 19%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 36%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 80,796

Accepted: 14%

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72 BOSTON UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

BU’s university- wide general education curriculum, the BU Hub, requires stu-

dents to complete coursework focusing on diversity, civic engagement, global citi-

zenship, digital communication, and innovation, among other areas to help them

thrive in the future. The BU Cross- College Challenge, the BU Hub’s signature fea-

ture, gives juniors and seniors the chance to collaborate with a small team of class-

mates and faculty from across the university on an interdisciplinary project.

BU’s 10 undergraduate schools and colleges offer more than 300 majors and

minors; business administration, communication, biology, economics, engineering,

international relations, and psychology are the most popular. “All of the academic

programs I’ve encountered have an accomplished faculty that brings real- world expe-

riences into the classroom,” says a political science major. New majors include African

American and Black diaspora studies; archaeological and environmental sciences; and

Korean language and literature. The College of Communication combines theory

with hands- on training— some of it by adjunct professors with day jobs at major

newspapers and TV networks. It also houses the nation’s first center for the study of

political disinformation. The well- regarded School of Theatre benefits from the 250-

seat, flexibly designed Booth Theatre, which adjoins production and costume shops,

design labs, and classrooms. The College of Arts and Sciences offers some 90 majors

and special advising for premed and prelaw students. Many students in the College

of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College go on to earn graduate degrees

from the college’s highly ranked physical and occupational therapy programs.

The Questrom School of Business, one of BU’s top programs, offers an honors pro-

gram for sophomores and concentrations in such areas as law, innovation and entre-

preneurship, and business analytics. BU’s Innovate@ BU initiative connects students

with resources to help them turn entrepreneurial

ideas into action. Future employers of students in

the School of Hospitality Administration offer

internships in exotic locales such as Sydney and Shanghai. The College of Engineering,

known for its biomedical engineering program, boasts a high- tech robotics lab. Students

in the School of Visual Arts may show their work in one of three campus galleries. The

cross- disciplinary Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences offers a B.S. degree in data

science. Sixty percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, and students say the aca-

demic climate encourages both cooperation and competition. “While I am consistently

challenged, I do not feel overwhelmed by the workload,” says one senior.

Students rave about the First- Year Student Outreach Project, which brings fresh-

men to campus a week early to do community service. For a break from brutal Boston

winters, BU offers more than 80 study abroad programs, including internships, field

work, research, language study, and liberal arts programs, in 19 countries; 37 per-

cent of students typically participate. The Kilachand Honors College is a four- year

undergraduate living/learning community that offers students the small classes,

close interaction with faculty, and communal atmosphere of a small liberal arts col-

lege along with the resources of a major urban research university.

According to a biology major, BU students are “really cool nerds: smart, but also

fun.” Fifty- seven percent of BU undergrads are from out of state, and another 22 per-

cent come from foreign countries. Asian Americans make up 20 percent of the pop-

ulation, Hispanics/Latinos 11 percent, Black

students 5 percent, and multiracial students

4 percent. Students report that low socioeco-

nomic diversity is one of the biggest social issues

on campus. “Many students come from high-

income backgrounds and lack a perspective on what it’s like to live on a small

budget,” comments a senior. BU has introduced a number of initiatives to address

affordability: the university now guarantees to meet 100 percent of domestic

(continued)

Enrolled: 31%

Grad in 6 Years: 89%

Returning Freshmen: 94%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (617) 353- 2300

Email Address: admissions @

bu .edu

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Communication

Theatre

Hospitality Administration

Biomedical Engineering

Biology

Economics

International Relations

Data Science

“[BU students are] really cool

nerds: smart, but also fun.”

The BU Cross- College

Challenge gives

juniors and seniors the

chance to collaborate

with a small team

of classmates

and faculty.

“We always have on-

campus events every day

of the week, including the

weekends.”

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BOSTON UNIVERSITY 73

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

students’ demonstrated financial need and promises that if tuition increases, need-

based scholarships will also increase by the same percentage. Loans are not included

in financial aid packages for incoming freshmen who are eligible for Pell Grants. In

addition to need- based aid, BU offers merit scholarships averaging $28,000 each

year as well as 346 athletic scholarships in 19 sports.

Typically, 65 percent of BU students live in campus housing, which is guaran-

teed for four years and selected via a lottery system. “Freshman/sophomore dorms

are fairly typical, but housing gets better as you get to be a senior,” explains a psy-

chology major, and some of the newest facilities are like “luxury apartments.” Meal

plans are flexible, and one of the six dining halls on campus is kosher. There’s also

a farmers’ market and a food court with national chains like Starbucks and Panda

Express. “For being in an urban area, I feel extremely safe on campus,” reports one

senior. The Sexual Assault Response and Prevention Center provides prevention-

based programming and support and advocacy for survivors.

“The social scene at BU has a lot to offer,” a student says. “We always have on-

campus events every day of the week, including the weekends. If we don’t feel like

staying on campus, we can just hop on our Boston trains and be anywhere in the city

within minutes.” With less than 1 percent of the

men and just 10 percent of the women joining fra-

ternities and sororities, Greek life has little influ-

ence on the social scene. Parties happen off campus,

including at neighboring schools, and policies

regarding underage drinking on BU’s campus are reportedly strict. Owing to Boston’s

pervasive Irish heritage, St. Patrick’s Day is an occasion for revelry. The Splash student

activity fair and homecoming in the fall are favorite annual events, along with comedy

nights that bring big- name comedians like Colin Jost, Vanessa Bayer, and Hasan Minhaj

to campus once a semester. Lobster Night, where the dining halls serve up whole lob-

sters, is always a big hit. Road trip options include Cape Cod, Cape Ann, and Providence,

Rhode Island. Even better, “Fenway Park, downtown, Lansdowne Street, and Boston

Common are all within walking distance,” says a marine biology major.

BU doesn’t field a football team, so hockey season is the athletic high point of

the school year. Most Terrier teams compete in the Division I Patriot League, and

among the solid teams are men’s basketball, lacrosse, and rowing, and women’s

softball, soccer, field hockey, and rowing. By 2023, BU had won 31 of 69 titles in the

annual Beanpot men’s ice hockey tournament, which pits BU against Harvard,

Northeastern, and archrival Boston College. The Head of the Charles regatta, which

starts at BU’s crew house each fall, draws college crew teams from across the country.

Of the dozen or so intramural sports offered, by far the most popular is broomball,

which is like ice hockey on sneakers, with a ball instead of a puck and a broom

instead of a stick; students may also compete in 34 club sports.

Boston University shamelessly urges students to just “Be You” (ahem) and most

are happy to do so, but they warn that being successful here requires a certain degree

of initiative. The school is “a great place, with lots of academic and social opportu-

nities, but it’s not for the timid student,” remarks a geophysics and planetary sci-

ences major. “You have to be proactive about finding out what’s going on around

campus, so that you can find your niche.”

Comedy nights that

bring big- name

comedians like

Colin Jost, Vanessa

Bayer, and Hasan

Minhaj to campus

once a semester.

“You definitely walk away

from BU with a sense

of accomplishment and

individuality.”

BU’s Innovate@ BU

initiative connects

students with

resources to help them

turn entrepreneurial

ideas into action.

Overlaps

UCLA, NYU,

University of

Southern California,

Northeastern, UC

Berkeley, Boston

College, Tufts,

Johns Hopkins

If You Apply To ›

BU: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Apply to particular school

or college. Applicants to fine arts programs must submit a portfolio or audition. Please consult BU’s website for the most

up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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74 BOWDOIN COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME 04011

Rates with Amherst, Williams, and Wesleyan for liberal arts excellence and pioneered

in not requiring the SAT. Bowdoin’s science programs are especially strong, including

its unique interdisciplinary offerings in environmental studies. Outdoor enthusiasts

benefit from proximity to the Atlantic Coast. Not as large as some of its peers, with

less overt competition among students.

Since 1794, Bowdoin College has sought to make nature, art, and friendship as inte-

gral to the student experience as the world of books. This is, after all, the alma

mater of the great American authors Longfellow and Hawthorne. In fact, when new

students matriculate, they sign their names in a book on Hawthorne’s very desk.

Though the New England winter can be frigid, students are quick to point out that

good food and friendships help make the campus a warm and welcoming place.

Bowdoin’s 215- acre campus sits in Brunswick, a coastal town in southern

Maine. Hidden amid the pine groves and athletic fields are 120 buildings, in styles

from German Romanesque, colonial, medieval, and neoclassical to neo- Georgian,

modern, and postmodern. The historic Harriet Beecher Stowe House, in which the

famed author wrote Uncle Tom’s Cabin, has been carefully renovated and now houses

faculty offices. Other buildings have been updated recently and the new Barry Mills

Hall opened in 2023, which houses the digital and computational studies program

and includes technology- friendly classrooms and a state- of- the- art cinema.

To graduate, Bowdoin students must complete courses in five distribution areas

that emphasize issues vital to a liberal education in the 21st century: mathematical,

computational, or statistical reasoning; inquiry in the natural sciences; difference,

power, and inequity; international perspectives;

and visual and performing arts. First- years have

their choice of small seminars, which emphasize

reading and writing; recent topics have included

The Politics of Climate Change, Deconstructing

Racism, and Personal Genomes. One senior says the seminars “give you a good sense

of what you really need to work on to succeed at Bowdoin.” All incoming first- years

receive a MacBook Pro, an iPad, an Apple Pencil, and access to a range of course-

specific software. As sophomores, students participate in a five- day career “boot

camp” during winter break, featuring workshops that focus on skill development

and industry- specific advice.

Academic strengths include the sciences, particularly environmental studies,

earth and oceanographic science, neuroscience, chemistry, and biology. Bowdoin

also offers a rare concentration in Arctic studies (its mascot is the polar bear), which

has a new home in recently opened John and Lile Gibbons Center. Students can

participate in Arctic archaeological research in Labrador, Canada, or ecological

research at the Bowdoin Scientific Station on Kent Island in the Bay of Fundy. The

Schiller Coastal Studies Center, located just 15 minutes away on a 118- acre plot

on Orr’s Island, provides additional opportunities for multidisciplinary, field- and

lab- based research on critical coastal and climate issues. Mathematics, computer sci-

ence, and English are also well regarded, and students say the popularity of govern-

ment and economics— the majors with the highest enrollment— is well deserved.

Dual- degree programs in engineering are available through Caltech, Columbia,

Dartmouth, and the University of Maine.

“Students take their schoolwork seriously, and the work is difficult,” says a

Website: www .bowdoin .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,909

Undergraduates: 1,909

Male/Female: 48/52

Financial Aid: 55%

Pell Grant: 18%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 23%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 9,376

Accepted: 9%

Enrolled: 59%

Grad in 6 Years: 94%

Returning Freshmen: 96%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (207) 725- 3100

Email Address: admissions @

bowdoin .edu

Strong Programs:

Environmental Studies

Earth and Oceanographic

Science

Neuroscience

Mathematics

Computer Science

English

Government

Economics

“Freshman seminars give

you a good sense of what

you really need to work on

to succeed at Bowdoin.”

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BOWDOIN COLLEGE 75

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

government and economics double major, while a math major adds, “professors

have many office hours set aside to help students.” About 64 percent of classes

have fewer than 20 students. Professors teach all Bowdoin classes— there are no

graduate students here, and thus no teaching assistants— and their skills in the

classroom are highly praised. “My professors are intelligent, fun, passionate, and

open- minded,” says a freshman.

Before school begins, the entire entering class takes preorientation hiking, canoe-

ing, kayaking, or community service trips that teach them about the people and

landscape of Maine. Service learning, coordinated by the McKeen Center for the

Common Good, is increasingly an emphasis at Bowdoin; 54 percent of students

apply their classroom work to real- world problems faced by local community groups.

“Undergraduate research opportunities abound,” says a sophomore English major.

And it’s common for juniors and seniors to conduct independent studies with faculty

members, then publish their results in professional journals. Eighteen percent of

seniors complete yearlong honors projects culminating in a written thesis, oral

defense, or original creative piece. Over 50 percent of students study abroad through

more than 100 programs offered in more than 50 countries.

Just 10 percent of students hail from Maine, and 8 percent are international.

Black students make up 6 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 13 percent,

Asian Americans 9 percent, and multiracial students 9 percent. On this liberal

campus, “Many students are outdoorsy, athletic,

a little preppy— but everyone has an interest and

a passion that might surprise you,” a mathemat-

ics major says, “and most people have friends

from all different social groups on campus.” In 1970 Bowdoin became the first lead-

ing college to make SAT scores an optional part of the admissions process, shifting

the emphasis to a student’s whole body of work. Additionally, Bowdoin employs a

need- blind admissions policy, meets the full demonstrated financial need of admit-

ted students, and has eliminated loans from its financial aid packages, replacing

them with scholarships.

Ninety- five percent of Bowdoin students live in college- owned housing, where

first- years start off in quads, with two double bedrooms and a shared common room,

in renovated historic residence halls. After that, students may apply to live in

“College Houses,” many of which used to be fraternity houses before Bowdoin

phased out Greek groups more than 25 years ago. Students give rave reviews

to dining services, especially the lobster bake that kicks off each school year and the

offerings for vegans and vegetarians. “Bowdoin’s food is restaurant quality, and

the menu is different every day,” cheers a senior. Several student groups are active

in raising awareness around issues of sexual violence, and a government major

praises the “Safe Ride” system that provides campus- run on- call vans for a lift home.

“Bowdoin is a work hard– play hard kind of place,” says a junior, and social life

mostly centers around two groups: sports teams and College Houses. “We have a

system of nine College Houses that host all types of events— academic, cultural, and

parties— that are open to all students at the col-

lege,” explains a junior. “This sense of inclusivity

ensures that people do not feel the pressure to

drink.” Hard liquor is prohibited. Students look

forward to homecoming in the fall and Ivies, a weekend blast of fun before spring

finals. An annual concert, recently moved to February, brings major performers like

Childish Gambino and indie pop singer Maude Latour to campus.

One student says Brunswick (population 22,000) is “a great, quiet college town.”

America Reads and Counts Tutoring Program and various mentoring offerings help

build bridges between students and local residents. A car comes in handy for the

When new students

matriculate, they

sign their names in a

book on Hawthorne’s

very desk.

“Bowdoin Football is

notoriously bad, but we

love them anyway.”

Students love the

annual Ivies party

that offers a weekend

blast of fun before

spring finals.

“Many students are

outdoorsy, athletic, a little

preppy.”

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76 BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

15- minute drive to the shopping outlets of Freeport (including L.L. Bean’s flagship

24/7 factory store) or the 30- minute trip to Portland for a “real” night out. Students

can also opt to take a school shuttle, the inexpensive Metro Breez bus, or the nearby

Amtrak train to these destinations or to Boston, a little more than two hours away.

Ski bums will find several resorts within easy reach.

While the long winters can be grueling, they do bring out school spirit, espe-

cially when Bowdoin’s hockey teams take the ice. The Polar Bears compete in the

Division III New England Small College Athletic Conference. Sporting events against

Colby are exciting, and the annual hockey matchup draws crowds of alumni and

locals alike. Sports teams that have excelled recently include women’s volleyball,

field hockey and rugby, men’s and women’s lacrosse, and tennis. Adds one senior,

“Bowdoin Football is notoriously bad, but we love them anyway.” Also popular are

club sports, intramurals, and recreational activities, including those organized by

the student- run Bowdoin Outing Club, whose weekend jaunts range from rock

climbing, skiing, and white- water rafting to fireside knitting and sledding.

Students who love the outdoors, even when it’s cold, will find warm and invit-

ing academics at Bowdoin, where close friendships with peers and professors are

easily forged. “Everyone at Bowdoin agrees that it is a special place,” says a senior

sociology major. “The way it fosters our lifelong relationships with the school and

with each other is what makes it unique.”

Government and

economics are the

most popular majors.

Students say the academic climate is cooperative. “Instead of being super com-

petitive,” says a student, “I see more students working together to get the job done.”

Currently, 22 percent of undergraduate classes have more than 50 students. Research

is an institutional priority for faculty, and the quality of instruction can vary. Still,

UCR has a tradition of undergraduate and faculty interaction; 30 percent of under-

grads conduct research, and a wide range of research grants are available during

Website: www .ucr .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 25,524

Undergraduates: 21,955

Male/Female: 47/51

Financial Aid: 84%

Pell Grant: 43%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 55%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 54,685

Accepted: 69%

Enrolled: 15%

Grad in 6 Years: 76%

Returning Freshmen: 87%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (951) 827- 3411

Email Address: admissions @

ucr .edu

Strong Programs:

Plant Biology

Entomology

Biological Sciences

Computer Science

Computer Engineering

Environmental Engineering

Creative Writing

Public Policy

“Instead of being super

competitive, I see more

students working together

to get the job done.”

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106 UC RIVERSIDE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

the academic year. “The professors are usually happy to help students, as are the

teaching assistants,” says a psychology and education major. The University Honors

Program offers exceptional students further academic challenges, in addition to

extracurricular activities and special seminars for freshmen. Talented student sing-

ers, dancers, and actors can earn stipends for performing in the community through

an arts outreach program. Faculty- led, five- week summer study abroad options are

expanding, and through the UC system, students have access to more than 150

international programs in over 40 countries.

Ninety- five percent of UCR undergraduates are from California, mainly L.A.,

Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange County; 1 percent are international. “UCR is

one of the most diverse universities in the nation,” a political science major says,

which creates “a blended environment of different cultures, nationalities, and social

statuses.” Indeed, Asian Americans account for 37 percent of the students, Hispanics/

Latinos 39 percent, Black students 3 percent, and multiracial students 5 percent. A

hefty 43 percent of first- time freshmen receive Pell Grants. As part of the UC com-

mitment to diversity, UCR’s Costo Hall houses centers for various ethnicities, for

women, and for LGBTQ students. The political atmosphere is liberal, and a junior

comments, “The student body is pretty chill and open- minded.” Numerous merit

scholarships averaging $6,300 are doled out every year, as well as more than 200

athletic scholarships.

Housing is relatively easy to obtain, but the quality varies greatly. “While West

Lothian looks like a prison, Pentland Hills is like a resort,” says one student. Thirty-

five percent of undergrads live in the dorms. Construction is ongoing on the mas-

sive North District development, which will

eventually add about 6,000 beds, new dining and

athletic facilities, and other mixed- use spaces to

accommodate the university’s growing student

population. The district’s first apartment com-

munity, North District Apartments, opened in 2021 with beds for 1,500 students.

Five academically oriented living/learning communities are popular with freshmen,

who are guaranteed housing for their first year. Campus dining is generally described

as adequate. Students say they feel safe on campus; security measures include an

escort service, patrolling security officers, and regular training on sexual assault pre-

vention and intervention.

Fraternities and sororities attract 2 percent of the men and 4 percent of the

women. “There is always something going on, whether it be a concert, lecture, or

sorority/fraternity party,” one sophomore says. Campus hangouts, including the

renovated and expanded Barn, have live bands and comedy nights, and a cultural

arts program brings professional shows to campus. Every Wednesday the campus

can enjoy a “nooner,” where the music department puts on free concerts and lec-

tures during lunch. Returning students are welcomed back every year with a cam-

puswide block party, and the Spring Splash concert brings in hot bands. University

Village is a commercial center offering a movie theater, restaurants, and an arcade

right on the edge of campus. Riverside weather is temperate except during the

summer months, when the heat and haze combine to make a trip to the ocean look

really inviting. The coast is only about 45 minutes by freeway and the desert an hour

east. Big Bear and numerous ski resorts are also within an hour’s drive.

The Riverside Highlanders compete in the Division I Big West Conference in 17

sports, and the men’s soccer and women’s golf teams have been successful in recent

years. A recreational program in men’s and women’s karate has turned out national

champions. A student recreation center offers a health- club atmosphere with sand

volleyball, weight and workout machines, and intramural sports, including peren-

nially popular basketball and soccer leagues.

Returning students

are welcomed back

every year with a

campuswide block

party, and the Spring

Splash concert brings

in hot bands.

“There is always something

going on, whether it be a

concert, lecture, or sorority/

fraternity party.”

The campus libraries

have an impressive

4 million volumes.

Overlaps

UC Santa Barbara,

UC Irvine, UC

Davis, University of

Oregon, UC Santa

Cruz, UC San Diego,

UCLA, Cal State

Fullerton

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UC SAN DIEGO 107

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

UC San Diego

9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0021, La Jolla, CA 92093

Applications have doubled in the past 10 years at this seaside paradise. UC San

Diego now rivals better- known Berkeley and UCLA as the Cal campus of choice

for top students. Six undergraduate colleges break the university down to a more

manageable size. Best known for science, engineering, and the famed Scripps

Institution of Oceanography.

Some say that looking good is better than feeling good, but at UC San Diego, they’re

doing a lot of both. Set against the serene beauty of La Jolla’s beaches, students

catch as much relaxation time as they do study time. But San Diego, established in

1960, is now the research star of the UC system, and its faculty rates high nation-

ally among public institutions in science productivity. And within each of the six

undergraduate colleges, a system that offers undergraduates more intimate settings,

students are honing their minds with the classics and the cutting edge in academics.

San Diegans tend to be more mellow than the average Southern Californian, and

the students here follow suit. But UC San Diego is bubbling with intellectual energy

and the healthy desire to be at the top of the UC system.

San Diego’s tree- lined campus sits high on a bluff overlooking the Pacific in the

seaside resort of La Jolla. The predominant architectural theme is contemporary,

with a few out- of- the- ordinary structures, including a library that looks like an

inverted pyramid. Another tinge of the postmod-

ern is the nation’s largest neon sculpture, which

wraps around one of the high- rise academic

buildings and consists of seven- foot- tall letters that spell out the seven virtues super-

imposed over the seven vices. Work is underway on a significant campus expansion

that will add several new academic and residential facilities, including the com-

pleted $67 million Design and Innovation Building.

UC San Diego’s six undergraduate colleges have their own sets of general edu-

cation requirements, their own personalities, and differing ideals on which they are

based. Revelle College, the oldest, is the most rigorous and mandates that students

become equally acquainted with a certain level of coursework in the humanities,

sciences, and social sciences, as well as fulfill a language requirement. Muir allows

more flexibility in the distribution of requirements. Thurgood Marshall College was

founded to emphasize and encourage social awareness. Like Revelle, it places equal

weight on sciences, social sciences, and humanities, but it also stresses a liberal arts

education based on “an examination of the human condition in a multicultural

Website: www .ucsd .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Public

Total Enrollment: 39,516

Undergraduates: 32,083

Male/Female: 47/53

Financial Aid: 60%

Pell Grant: 24%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 39%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 131,254

Accepted: 24%

Enrolled: 21%

Grad in 6 Years: 88%

Returning Freshmen: 93%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (858) 534- 4831

Email Address:

admissionsreply @ ucsd .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Computer Science

Oceanography

Biology

“You end up teaching a lot

of the material to yourself.”

All in all, Riverside is expanding and improving, albeit not without some growing

pains, including tuition and living costs. But it still offers more personal attention to

its students than many of its larger, sister UC campuses. “UCR has grown immensely

over the past few years,” one sophomore says. “The emphasis for the future is to estab-

lish a name for UCR, to let the nation know what a wonderful university this is.”

If You Apply To ›

Riverside: Regular decision. SATs or ACTs: not considered. Does not accept the Common Application. Apply to a particular

college, school, or program. Application includes optional question about gender/sexual identity.

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108 UC SAN DIEGO

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

society.” Warren has developed a highly organized internship program that gives

its undergraduates more practical experience than the others do. Eleanor Roosevelt

College devotes its curriculum to international and cross- cultural studies. Sixth

College focuses on art, culture, and technology, with the aim of preparing students

to work collaboratively and enjoy working in their communities. Prospective fresh-

men apply to the university but must indicate their preferred college.

UC San Diego’s programs in science, engineering, and computer science have

global reputations and are “not for the faint of heart,” says one student. The engi-

neering school, notable for offerings like structural engineering and nanoengineer-

ing, is particularly competitive, and a limit to the number of students who can

declare these majors means acceptance usually requires an A average and top test

scores in entry- level courses. The nearby Scripps Institution of Oceanography is also

excellent. Biology (the most popular major) and chemistry are also strengths, but

you really can’t go wrong in any of the hard sciences. Although the humanities and

social sciences are not as solid in comparison, international studies, psychology, and

cognitive science are popular majors. Students may also devise their own majors.

Twenty- one percent of students study abroad; San Diego’s five- week, faculty- led

Global Seminars in the summer are especially popular.

San Diego operates on the quarter system, which means students cram 3 or 4

courses into 10 weeks. Science students in particular find the workload intense. The

quality of research done by the faculty, half a dozen of whom are Nobel laureates, is

extremely high, and students have ample opportunities to assist with research,

sometimes as early as freshman year. Students say the typical scenario of research

over teaching is not as common at UC San Diego. Even so, given the large class

sizes— 26 percent of undergraduate courses enroll more than 50 students— “you end

up teaching a lot of the material to yourself,” according to an anthropology major.

A theater major notes that the university’s academic intensity “does not mean that

all the students here are nerdy. We enjoy athletics and extracurricular activities, but

academic excellence is our priority.” San Diego ranks highly among public colleges and

universities in the percentage of graduates who go

on to earn a Ph.D. and in the percentage of stu-

dents accepted to medical school. Nine percent of

undergraduates are from states outside of California,

and 14 percent are international. Representation of

students of color is high, with 39 percent of the student body being Asian American,

23 percent Hispanic/Latino, and 3 percent Black. Diversity education includes a Cross-

Cultural Center for students, faculty, and staff that provides activities, brown- bag lun-

cheons, and programs on race relations. Merit scholarships averaging $12,700 are

available, and the university has begun to offer some athletic scholarships as it transi-

tions to Division I status.

Each of the university’s colleges has its own housing complex, with either dorms

or apartments. Most freshmen live on campus and are guaranteed housing for their

first two years. “The residence halls are very nice, with all the amenities,” says an

animal physiology major. Dorm residents are required to buy a meal plan, and their

Dining Dollars are good at any of the campus’s 13 eateries. Overall, 39 percent of

undergraduates live on campus; by junior year, students usually decide to take up

residence in La Jolla proper or nearby Del Mar, often in beachside apartments. That

can be costly, but if you are willing to relinquish the luxury of a five- minute walk to

the beach, a short commute will bring you relatively affordable housing.

“La Jolla is a rich, conservative, retired, white, snobbish community,” one

sophomore says. “Not a college town!” Cars are, of course, an inescapable part of

Southern California life, and owning one— many people do— makes off- campus

living even more pleasant. “No car equals no fun,” one international studies major

(continued)

Chemistry

International Studies

Psychology

Cognitive Science

UC San Diego’s

programs in science,

engineering, and

computer science have

global reputations.

“We enjoy athletics and

extracurricular activities,

but academic excellence is

our priority.”

San Diego’s five-

week, faculty- led

Global Seminars

in the summer are

especially popular.

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UC SANTA BARBARA 109

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

UC Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA 93106

Willpower is the watchword at UC Santa Barbara. On a beautiful day with the sound

of waves crashing in the distance, that’s what it takes to hang in there with pen,

paper, laptop, or book. Fairly or not, Santa Barbara is known as the party animal of

the UC system. In the classroom, science is the best bet. Free spirits should check

out the unusual College for Creative Studies.

For students at UC Santa Barbara, California’s famed beaches serve as both class-

room and playground. On weekends, sun- worshipping students grab surfboards and

don bikinis and head to the water for some serious fun. During the week, those same

students can likely be found studying technology rather than tan lines. “On a nice

Website: www .ucsb .edu

Location: Suburban

Public

says, although trying to park on campus can be difficult. Mexico is a half- hour drive

(even nearer than the desert, where many students go hiking), and the two- hour trip

to Los Angeles makes for a nice weekend jaunt.

For those looking to stay closer to campus, the Pacific Beach and downtown San

Diego, with its zoo, Sea World, and Balboa Park, are all only 12 miles away. Torrey

Pines State Natural Reserve is great for outdoor enthusiasts. “Most students hang out

at the dance clubs, jazz bars, and great restaurants

in the Gaslamp Quarter,” says a senior. The uni-

versity offers nearly 600 student- run groups, and

14 percent of the men and 14 percent of the

women join a fraternity or sorority. The campus is

dry, but some students claim that lax RAs and good fake IDs make for easy underage

drinking. Although campus life is relatively tame, everyone looks forward to university-

sponsored festivals, including the Open House, UnOlympics, and the Reggae Festival.

The biggest annual event pays tribute to a hideously loud and colorful statue of the

Sun God, which is the unofficial mascot for this sun- streaked student body. The Sun

God Festival draws such big- name performers as Drake and Wiz Khalifa.

Although San Diego will never be mistaken for a sports- crazed school (á la USC),

the university is in the process of transitioning from Division II to the Division I Big

West Conference. Triton volleyball, water polo, soccer, basketball, and tennis teams

have traditionally been the strongest. The school’s club surfing team has won seven

national championships. For weekend warriors, classes are available in windsurfing,

sailing, scuba diving, and kayaking at the nearby Mission Bay Aquatic Center. Most

students participate in one intramural league or another, and according to one, if

you’re not on a team, “you’re not a true UC San Diego student.”

The students at UC San Diego are exceptionally serious and out for an excellent

education. But the pace (study, party, relax, study more) and the props (sun, sand,

Frisbees, and flip- flops) give the rigorous curriculum an inimitable flavor that under-

graduates would not change. Indeed, many believe they have the best setup in higher

education: “a beautiful beachfront environment that eases a life of academic rigor.”

The annual Sun

God Festival draws

such big- name

performers as Drake

and Wiz Khalifa.

“Most students hang out at

the dance clubs, jazz bars,

and great restaurants in the

Gaslamp Quarter.”

Overlaps

University of

Michigan, U of I at

Urbana– Champaign,

University of

Virginia, University

of Washington,

UW– Madison,

UCLA, UC

Berkeley, UC Santa

Barbara

If You Apply To ›

San Diego: Regular decision. SATs or ACTs: not considered. Does not accept the Common Application. Apply to a partic-

ular college, school, or program. Application includes optional question about gender/sexual identity.

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110 UC SANTA BARBARA

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

sunny day, the beaches and grassy areas will be flooded with students,” says a fresh-

man, “but most of them are there with a book.”

UCSB provides a comfortable mixture of work and play that is unique even in

the UC system. Located just a stone’s throw from the beach, UC Santa Barbara’s

1,000- acre campus is bordered on two sides by the Pacific Ocean, with a clear view

of the Channel Islands. On the landward side are a nature preserve and the predom-

inantly student community of Isla Vista, and five miles to the north lie the Santa

Ynez Mountains. The campus, which joined the UC system in 1944, features mainly

1950s Southern California architecture with an atmosphere to match.

UCSB’s general education program features the usual distribution require-

ments and coursework in writing, non- Western cultures, quantitative relation-

ships, and ethnicity. Not surprisingly, the marine biology department stands out

among the university’s best, capitalizing on the school’s aquatic resources; chem-

ical engineering, physics, and chemistry are also well regarded. The Bren School

of Environmental Science and Management is home to world- renowned faculty,

boasting six Nobel Prize winners in economics, chemistry, and physics. The most

popular majors include sociology, psychological and brain sciences, communica-

tion, and global studies. The economics and accounting program is strong, and the

courses are geared toward taking and passing the CPA exam, so graduation is usually

followed by a mass recruitment by California’s big accounting firms. The College of

Creative Studies offers an unstructured curriculum to about 400 self- starters ready

for advanced and independent work in the arts, math, or the sciences. The inter-

disciplinary global studies major, another noteworthy option, combines language

study with global history, culture, economics, and politics.

“The academic climate of UC Santa Barbara is very collaborative,” says one

sophomore, but “the workload is definitely strenuous at times.” Fifty- seven percent

of all undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students, but teaching is a hit- or-

miss affair, according to one junior: “Many of

the professors are more interested in their

research than teaching a class.” On the flip side,

many opportunities are available for undergrads

to assist professors, and 60 percent of students

get involved in undergraduate research. For

those who seek time away, Santa Barbara is the headquarters of the UC system’s

Education Abroad Program, which sends students to any of 120 host universities

worldwide; 17 percent of UCSB students study abroad.

UCSB students, 92 percent of whom are California residents, are traditionally

public- spirited and laid- back. “There are some who aren’t the most academically

focused, but for the most part I’d say the students are great at balancing their aca-

demic and social lives while getting involved in helping the community,” says one

mechanical engineering major. Asian Americans contribute 20 percent of the stu-

dent body, Black students make up 2 percent, Hispanics/Latinos account for 26 per-

cent, and multiracial students add 7 percent; 12 percent are international. The

campus vibe is decidedly liberal. “Some of the biggest political issues on campus

have to do with the environment. As a coastal area, UCSB is very susceptible to pol-

lution,” explains one student. Merit scholarships averaging $8,200 and more than

200 athletic scholarships are available for those who qualify.

University housing, which includes both dorms and privately run residence

halls, is comfortable, well maintained, and much sought after. “Our on- campus

housing is amazing, right in front of the beach,” a junior says. “They come fully

furnished, with high- speed Internet, cable, telephone lines, and a great atmosphere.”

Thirty- eight percent of students, most of whom are freshmen, snag on- campus

housing. Meals in the dorms are available to residents and nonresidents alike, and

(continued)

Total Enrollment: 25,739

Undergraduates: 22,794

Male/Female: 43/55

Financial Aid: 67%

Pell Grant: 28%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 40%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 111,006

Accepted: 26%

Enrolled: 17%

Grad in 6 Years: 86%

Returning Freshmen: 92%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (805) 893- 2881

Email Address: admissions @

sa .ucsb .edu

Strong Programs:

Marine Biology

Chemical Engineering

Physics

Chemistry

Environmental Science

Economics and Accounting

Global Studies

Sociology

“Students are great at

balancing their academic

and social lives while

getting involved in helping

the community.”

The marine biology

department stands out

among the university’s

best, capitalizing

on the school’s

aquatic resources.

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UC SANTA CRUZ 111

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

UC Santa Cruz

1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064

From its flower- child beginnings, UC Santa Cruz has wandered back toward the

mainstream. The yoga mats and surfboards still abound and Sammy the banana slug is

still the mascot, but students are a lot more conventional than their predecessors. The

emphasis continues to be on environmental stewardship, community engagement,

and teaching students how to think, not what to think. Inadequate student housing is

a huge problem.

UC Santa Cruz, still a baby in the UC system, was born during the radical ’60s

when it reigned as the ultimate alternative school, a place that consciously rebelled

against the stodginess of educational institutions. The founding vision of an inte-

grated learning environment remains to this day, and every undergraduate affiliates

Website: www .ucsc .edu

Location: Small Town

Public

are, according to most students, more than simply edible. “Great food and tons of

it!” cheers one student. While students say they feel safe on campus, one oft used

motto is “four years, four bikes,” because of the frequency of bicycle thefts. Regarding

campus sexual assault, “The school has provided as many resources as it can, really,”

says a chemical engineering major, and it “does its best to prevent it.”

“It is really easy to get involved and make friends through campus activities,” says

a sophomore. “Additionally, the social scene off campus is really thriving in the com-

munity of Isla Vista.” Neighboring Isla Vista has welcomed its student population— after

all, most of its population is UCSB students. Students in turn are very active in the

community. The fraternities and sororities, which attract 7 percent of men and 13 per-

cent of women, are known for their philanthropy. The campus is dry, and one student

says, “Drinking alcohol on campus is pretty well

regulated and not easy to do.” Movies and con-

certs are also available, and the mountains, Los

Padres National Forest, and L.A. are all an easy

drive away. The annual Extravaganza is an all- day

free concert, and students are known to go wild on Halloween and dress up for the

entire weekend. “Halloween is our claim to fame,” boasts one student.

All of UCSB’s varsity teams (the Gauchos) compete in Division I, and the most

successful include soccer, water polo, baseball, volleyball, swimming, and basket-

ball. A never- ending rotation of intramurals is available on and off the beach, and

about a quarter of the students participate. Ultimate Frisbee is also quite popular, as

well as nationally competitive.

Sure, UCSB students love to play, but that’s not why most come to this coastal

institution. “If there was anything that I would like to improve, it would be the lin-

gering reputation UCSB has as a party school,” observes one student. “This reputa-

tion is more of a relic from times past.” That said, UCSB students also know a good

thing when they see it: not everyone gets to spend four years near the beach and

come away with a degree.

One oft used motto

is “four years, four

bikes,” because of

the frequency of

bicycle thefts.

“The social scene off

campus is really thriving

in the community of Isla

Vista.”

Overlaps

UCLA, UC

Berkeley, UC San

Diego, UC Irvine,

UC Davis

If You Apply To ›

Santa Barbara: Regular decision. SATs or ACTs: not considered. Does not accept the Common Application. Apply to a

particular college, school, or program. Application includes optional question about gender/sexual identity.

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112 UC SANTA CRUZ

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

with one of the residential colleges. Progressive thought continues to flourish, as

does a strong academic program that strives to focus on undergraduate education.

Students still come to UC Santa Cruz to do their own thing.

The campus, among the most beautiful in the nation, is set on a 2,000- acre

expanse of meadowland and redwood forest overlooking Monterey Bay. Bike paths

and hiking trails wind throughout the redwood- tree- filled campus, and the beach

is a quick drive away— or a spectacular bike ride or scenic hike. The buildings range

from 1860 Cowell Ranch farm structures to the award- winning, modern residen-

tial colleges, whose styles range from Mediterranean to Japanese to sleek concrete

block. Thanks to a unique building code, nothing may be built taller than two-

thirds the height of the nearest redwood tree. The 26,000- square- foot Digital Arts

Research Center serves as a social and intellectual hub for UC Santa Cruz’s Arts

Division. Newer additions to campus include the LEED Gold– certified Coastal

Biology Building, located at UC Santa Cruz’s Coastal Science Campus. That campus

is also home to expansive greenhouses, the Ocean Health Building, and more cen-

ters that support research and teaching on coastal conservation, ecology, climate

change impacts, and similar concerns.

UC Santa Cruz’s academic offerings range as widely as its architecture and fea-

ture both traditional and innovative programs, but overall, the emphasis is on the

liberal arts and sciences, and a majority of the students eventually go on to graduate

study. To graduate, students must fulfill a standard set of distribution requirements,

in addition to taking one of three “perspectives” courses focused on environmental

awareness, human behavior, or technology and society, and a course on creative

process, collaborative endeavor, or service learning. A disciplinary communica-

tion requirement helps students develop writing skills specific to their chosen field

of study. All seniors complete a capstone experience.

Led by marine biology and biology, the sciences are UC Santa Cruz’s strongest

suit. Science facilities include state- of- the- art laboratories; the Institute of Marine

Sciences, which boasts one of the largest groups of experts on marine mammals in

the nation; and the nearby Lick Observatory for budding stargazers. UCSC’s Baskin

School of Engineering offers strong programs in robotics engineering and computer

engineering. The computer game design B.S. is noteworthy as the first such major in

the UC system, and linguistics is strong. Students in STEM fields may benefit from

research or internship opportunities coordinated through the university’s satellite

campus in Silicon Valley. UCSC offers more than the average number of interdisci-

plinary programs, including feminist, Latin American/Latino, and critical race and

ethnic studies; environmental studies and community studies are standouts. The

most popular majors are computer science, psychology, business management eco-

nomics, and politics. While most students pursue traditional majors, the possibility

is still there for eclectically minded students to

pursue “history of consciousness” or just about

anything else they can get a faculty member to

OK. The Italian Studies major has been discon-

tinued. Thirty- five percent of students engage in faculty- guided undergraduate

research, and 8 percent study abroad in more than 46 countries through 420 avail-

able options; field study and internships are also encouraged.

“Courses are very rigorous,” warns one undergrad. Though the curriculum is

demanding and the quarter system keeps the academic pace fast, the atmosphere

is noncompetitive. Classes can be large, with 31 percent enrolling more than 50

students, but most professors at UC Santa Cruz are there to teach. “I’ve been very

impressed with how accessible professors are,” says a sophomore. “Whether it’s via

email or regular office hours, I feel very comfortable talking to all of my professors.”

“Before I came here, I was told that UCSC was a ‘hippie- dippie’ college,” says

(continued)

Total Enrollment: 18,646

Undergraduates: 16,728

Male/Female: 48/48

Financial Aid: 54%

Pell Grant: 32%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 43%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 66,033

Accepted: 47%

Enrolled: 12%

Grad in 6 Years: 77%

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (831) 459- 4008

Email Address: admissions @

ucsc .edu

Strong Programs:

Marine Biology

Biology

Robotics Engineering

Computer Engineering

Computer Game Design

Linguistics

Environmental Studies

Community Studies

“I feel very comfortable

talking to all of my

professors.”

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UC SANTA CRUZ 113

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

one student, “but it’s not true at all.” Even so, UC Santa Cruz remains the most

liberal of the UC campuses and, according to one student, is “still a school with a

social conscience.” Ninety- two percent of undergraduates are Californians, though

the university always manages to lure a few Easterners; 4 percent are international.

Asian Americans account for 23 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 28 percent, Black stu-

dents 2 percent, and multiracial students 8 percent. “Racial, ethnic, and cultural

diversity is celebrated and strongly encouraged by the majority of the students

here,” reports a politics major. One- third of incoming freshmen qualify for Pell

Grants. Merit scholarships, which average $7,600 each, are available, but there are

no athletic scholarships.

In an effort to become what one official calls a “near- perfect hybrid” between

the large university and the small college, campus life revolves around the residen-

tial colleges, each of which has dedicated faculty fellows and support staff. Some

dorms have their own dining halls with reasonably good food; students may also

opt to join a food co- op. The CARE (Campus Advocacy, Resources, and Education)

office provides education on issues of sexual assault and support to survivors. The

university provides housing for more than half of undergraduates but guarantees it

for only one year. Finding subsequent accommodations in the tight— and

pricey— Santa Cruz housing market can be difficult. Soaring rents have forced some

students to live in cars, cram into shared apartments, and rent trailers without bath-

rooms and with limited internet.

A dozen fraternities and sororities attract 4 percent of the men and 5 percent of

the women, respectively. Students 21 and over are allowed to drink alcohol on

campus, although not in public areas, and parties must be registered. More than 150

student organizations on campus cover a wide

range of interests. The beach and resort town of

Santa Cruz, with its boardwalk and amusement

park, are only a 10- minute bike ride away,

although pedaling back up the hill takes much

longer. Those looking for city lights can take the mountainous highway to San Jose

(35 miles away) or the scenic coastal highway to San Francisco (75 miles), or ride a

bus to either city. Monterey, Big Sur, the Napa Valley, and the Sierras are easily acces-

sible by car.

Although UC Santa Cruz fields only a handful of varsity teams, which slug

it out in Division III, students love their school mascot, Sammy the banana slug.

Men’s and women’s cross-country, men’s and women’s volleyball, women’s golf

and basketball, and men’s tennis have performed well in recent years. Participation

in intramurals (“Friendship through Competition” is the motto) and club sports is

widespread, with rugby in particular growing in popularity. Sailing and scuba diving

are among the many physical education classes offered.

UC Santa Cruz is a progressive school with a gorgeous campus and innovative

academic programs, where the main focus of education is undergraduates. Many

students are concerned that it is growing too fast, and an ambitious proposal for

future expansion has threatened its heretofore cozy relationship with local citizens.

Still, as long as the university retains its belief in “to each his or her own”— and stu-

dents can find a place to live— it will remain uniquely UC Santa Cruz. Where else do

you get to rally around a banana slug?

UCSC’s Institute of

Marine Sciences

boasts one of the

largest groups

of experts on

marine mammals

in the nation.

“Racial, ethnic, and cultural

diversity is celebrated and

strongly encouraged by the

majority of the students.”

Overlaps

UC Santa Barbara,

UC San Diego, UC

Irvine, UC Davis,

UC Riverside, UC

Berkeley, UCLA,

Cal Poly

Students love their

school mascot, Sammy

the banana slug.

If You Apply To ›

Santa Cruz: Regular decision. SATs or ACTs: not considered. Does not accept the Common Application. Apply to a partic-

ular college, school, or program. Application includes optional question about gender/sexual identity.

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114 CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

California Institute of Technology

1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125

If you’re a Caltech student looking for tips on how to win a Nobel Prize, just ask a

professor who already has one. The small, West Coast counterpart to MIT among

bastions of STEM research and teaching, Caltech looks for hardworking students

with grit, wide- ranging intellectual curiosity, and a propensity for jaw- dropping

pranks.

The California Institute of Technology counts 46 Nobel Prize winners among its

faculty and alumni, and students’ demanding courseload means plenty of oppor-

tunities to tap into that brilliance. Expectations are high; “Techers” are fond of

saying that “the admissions office doesn’t make mistakes,” and it’s not unheard of

to take time off to deal with stress and avoid burnout. “The atmosphere promotes

a love of science, learning, and discovery that is truly exhilarating,” says a biology

major. No doubt about it— if you prefer particle physics to partying, Caltech is a

good place to be.

Caltech’s 124- acre campus is located in Pasadena, a wealthy suburban city less

than 15 miles from downtown Los Angeles. “It’s not a college town at all,” says a

senior. The distance means the school is relatively isolated from the glitz, glamour,

and good times that many people associate with La La Land. Outside the classroom,

at least, tranquility prevails, with olive trees, lily ponds, and plenty of flowers break-

ing up clusters of older Spanish mission- style buildings. Leafy courtyards and arcades

link these with what one student describes as more modern, “block institutional”

structures. The Beckman Auditorium (affectionately dubbed “The Wedding Cake”

due to its round shape and conical roof) features spaces for performing arts, lectures,

films, classes, and entertainment events. Newer additions include the $64 million,

211- bed Bechtel Residence.

Caltech’s mission, one official says, is “to train the creative type of scientist or

engineer urgently needed in our educational, governmental, and industrial devel-

opment.” After all, it was here that Albert Einstein abandoned his concept of a

static cosmos in favor of the expanding- universe

model. This is also where physicist Carl Anderson

discovered the positron. With these luminaries

as their models, students plunge right into the

extensive core institute requirements, which

include math, physics, chemistry, biology, science communication, two introduc-

tory lab terms, and 12 terms in the humanities and social sciences to round things

out. Students complain about the latter, and “usually take no more than absolutely

required,” says a biology major. Still, they can be tough to get into come registra-

tion time, says a computer science major, since enrollment is limited “to allow for

discussion among a small group.” The pass/fail grading system in the freshman year

goes a long way toward easing the acclimation period for new arrivals. And the

honor system, which mandates that “no one member of the Caltech community

shall take unfair advantage of any other member,” helps discourage unfair tactics

to get better grades. Professors give take- home exams, and if violations of the honor

code are suspected, “students decide if a violation was indeed made,” one student

explains.

Founded in 1891, Caltech made its name in physics, and students say that

program remains strong; it’s also one of the most popular majors, along with

computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemistry,

Website: www .caltech .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,401

Undergraduates: 982

Male/Female: 55/45

Financial Aid: 50%

Pell Grant: 10%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 27%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 16,626

Accepted: 3%

Enrolled: 50%

Grad in 6 Years: 94%

Returning Freshmen: 98%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

Q of L:

Admissions: (626) 395- 2645

Email Address:

ugadmissions @ caltech .edu

Strong Programs:

Physics

Computer Science

Mechanical Engineering

Electrical Engineering

Chemistry

Bioengineering

Mathematics

Geological and Planetary

Sciences

“The atmosphere promotes

a love of science, learning,

and discovery that is truly

exhilarating.”

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CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY 115

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

bioengineering, and math. Students praise the geological and planetary sciences

department for being “flexible with students and having excellent field trips,” says

a freshman. “GPS majors are some of the happiest at Caltech.” Caltech’s endow-

ment is one of the largest among the nation’s tech schools, and regardless of major,

students benefit from state- of- the- art STEM facilities, including the Beckman

Institute, a center for fundamental research in

biology and chemistry. Ninety percent of under-

graduates participate in research, including

80 percent who receive Summer Undergraduate

Research Fellowships, which offer the chance to get a head start on their own dis-

coveries, with help from a faculty sponsor. Many summer fellows publish results

from their endeavors in scientific journals. Eighteen percent of students also find

time to study abroad.

Despite Caltech’s reputation for ubiquitous brilliance, “The quality of instruc-

tion is variable, since Caltech is a research institution,” says a sophomore. “But

even the professors who are not stellar lecturers still provide a breadth of knowl-

edge.” Another student notes that professors in the humanities and social sciences

really shine, since they actually want to teach, rather than hole up in a lab with

mass spectrometers and computer simulations of atomic fission. Coursework tends

to be heavily theory- based, and one student describes the academic climate as

“collaborative, intense, and busy.” While teaching assistants do lead some recita-

tion sections affiliated with large lectures, it’s not uncommon for professors to

lead them too— even for freshmen— and 70 percent of all classes have fewer than

20 students.

“Caltech students are quirky, awkward, extremely passionate, and supportive,”

says a mechanical engineering major. Thirty- six percent of Techers come from

California, and 9 percent hail from foreign nations. Thirty- four percent of under-

grads are Asian American; other minorities are less well represented, with Hispanics/

Latinos making up 22 percent of the student body, Black students just 3 percent,

and multiracial students 9 percent. Men out-

number women, which has inspired the bitter-

sweet observation among distaff Techers that

“the odds are good, but the goods are odd.”

Students describe their classmates as mostly apathetic when it comes to politics, but

a physics major says, “The LGBTQ community is well supported and very present

on campus.” All financial aid is awarded based on need— meaning no merit or ath-

letic scholarships— and Caltech guarantees to meet the full demonstrated need of

all admitted students.

Caltech undergrads are required to live on campus for all four years in housing

that one student calls “comfortable and convenient.” There are no fraternities or

sororities, but the campus’s eight co- ed “houses” inspire a loyalty worthy of the

Greeks and offer social and emotional support in an academically intense environ-

ment. “Housing is the most special thing about Caltech: we are sorted into houses

in a fashion similar to rushing, except that everyone gets into a house,” explains a

computer science major. During Rotation Week, freshmen spend an evening visit-

ing each house, indicating at week’s end the four they like the most; the Office of

Residential Experience then sorts them into houses. The four older houses, which

have been renovated, offer single, double, and triple rooms, while the newer ones

have doubles. Each dorm has a dining hall, and those who live on campus must buy

a meal plan, which a junior calls “quite expensive for the quality of food.” Special

plates are prepared daily for those with specific dietary needs. During an annual,

student- led Title IX Summit, students plan solutions and strategies to prevent

sexual violence.

“Caltech students are

quirky, awkward, extremely

passionate, and supportive.”

The annual Halloween

Pumpkin Drop

involves immersing

a gourd in liquid

nitrogen and then

dropping it from

the library roof.

“[Geological and planetary

science] majors are some

of the happiest at Caltech.”

It was here that Albert

Einstein abandoned

his concept of a

static cosmos in favor

of the expanding-

universe model.

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116 CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The houses are the social center of Caltech life, and since each one takes a turn

hosting a themed “interhouse” party, students can count on at least eight school-

wide parties throughout the year. Caltech requires any house or organization host-

ing a party to hire a professional bartender, who checks IDs, and to have students

trained in safety and emergency procedures in attendance. Other than house par-

ties, students say, social life is pretty tame, since everyone is so busy with their

schoolwork. “Ask any local bartender for a Caltech Cocktail and you will get three

ounces of straight water,” quips a sophomore. Some students head off campus—

to Old Pasadena, nearby schools like USC, Occidental, and the Claremont Colleges,

or to downtown L.A., easily reachable on the Metro’s gold line. Disneyland and

Hollywood are always options, and road trips to the beach, mountains, or desert— or

south of the border, to Mexico— are possible for those with cars.

Even with ample off- campus diversions, many Caltech students still prefer to

make their own fun. The annual Pumpkin Drop (on Halloween, of course) involves

immersing a gourd in liquid nitrogen and then dropping it from the library roof, so

that it shatters into a zillion frozen shards. On

Ditch Day, underclassmen solve complex puz-

zles, defeat obstacles, and engage in “wild adven-

tures” that have been planned by seniors, who

disappear from campus, and then claim a prize at

the end of the day. “All classes are canceled, all deadlines are extended, and it’s just

a day of nerdiness,” says a sophomore. During finals week, stereos blast “The Ride of

the Valkyries” at seven o’clock each morning, just the thing to get you going after

that all- nighter. Caltech also has a storied history of practical jokes. The most fabled

student prank occurred during the 1984 Rose Bowl game, when UCLA played Illinois.

A group of Caltech whiz kids spent months devising a radio- control device that

would allow them to take control of the scoreboard in the second half, to gain

national exposure for Caltech by flashing pictures of their school’s mascot, the

beaver, and a revised score that had Caltech trouncing MIT.

As for Caltech’s actual athletic exploits, some of the most successful of the school’s

16 Division III teams include men’s and women’s tennis, swimming and diving, and

cross- country. The Beavers’ men’s basketball team became campus heroes in 2011

when they ended a conference losing streak that dated back to 1985. Perhaps more

popular than varsity competition, though, are the intramural matches between the

houses, in nine sports every year. Another favorite is the annual design competition

that is the culmination of Mechanical Engineering 72, in which student- built robots

must complete tasks while traversing an obstacle course.

Caltech students must learn to thrive under intense pressure, thanks to the

school’s tremendous workload and somewhat lackluster social life. But students say

they appreciate the freedom to think and explore— and the trust administrators

place in them through the honor code. “The unique student body, how available

professors are (I call almost all of them by their first names), and how much we learn

make Caltech a special place,” says a sophomore.

“Ask any local bartender

for a Caltech Cocktail and

you will get three ounces of

straight water.”

The campus’s eight

co- ed “houses”

inspire a loyalty

worthy of the Greeks

and offer social and

emotional support.

Overlaps

MIT, Harvey Mudd,

Stanford, Harvard,

Princeton, Yale,

UC Berkeley,

University of

Chicago

If You Apply To ›

Caltech: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Students have the option of

submitting published scientific research papers and letters from research mentors. Please consult Caltech’s website for the

most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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CALVIN UNIVERSITY 117

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Calvin University

3201 Burton Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

An evangelical Christian institution that ranks high on the private college affordability

list. About a quarter of the students are members of the Christian Reformed Church.

Archrival of Michigan neighbor Hope and Illinois cousin Wheaton. Best known in

the humanities and as one of the few Christian universities with engineering. Big

emphasis on study abroad, and investing in new sports, including football.

Calvin University takes seriously its mission to equip students to “think deeply, to

act justly, and to live wholeheartedly as Christ’s agents of renewal in the world.”

Along with Wheaton College in Illinois, it is regarded as one of the country’s top

evangelical colleges. Though no one is required to attend the school’s daily chapel

services, classes stop when worship starts, and most students view Christian values

as central to the academic experience. “Although not every student at Calvin is reli-

gious, Christian ideals and morals are very prevalent on campus,” says a secondary

education major.

Calvin was founded in 1876 as the educational wing of the Christian Reformed

Church in North America. After outgrowing one of its first homes, the school

bought a tract of land on the edge of Grand Rapids and built its present campus.

Calvin, which changed its name from “college” to “university” in 2019, spreads

out over 400 beautifully landscaped acres that include three ponds and a 100- acre

woodland and wetland ecosystem preserve used for classes, research, and recre-

ation. Most facilities are less than 50 years old and were designed by a student of

Frank Lloyd Wright. The east campus includes the DeVos Communication Center,

the Gainey Athletic Facility, and a new $11 million School of Business building that

opened in 2022.

The Calvin Core consists of four components: Foundations (Christian thought

and engagement); Competencies and Skills (writing, health, and world languages);

Knowledge and Understanding (coursework in a broad range of liberal arts and sci-

ence disciplines); and Cross- Disciplinary Integration (coursework that helps equip

students to be global citizens). In addition, Calvin LifeWork is an optional program

that teaches skills like financial literacy and career readiness, to prepare students for

success after college.

Preprofessional programs, such as business, engineering, education, and nursing,

tend to be Calvin’s best bets, students say, and those programs are among the most

popular majors. Philosophy, English, and religion

are also regarded as strong. Calvin is the only

Christian college in the U.S. to offer a comprehen-

sive Asian studies program, which includes courses

in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean language, his-

tory, and culture. New majors in operations and

supply chain management, strategic communication, and criminology are available,

and five- year bachelor- to- master’s programs are offered in accounting and in speech

pathology and audiology.

Calvin is founded on the belief that every subject— even the sciences or mass

media and popular culture— can be approached from a Christian perspective, and

faculty members work hard to integrate faith and learning. “Topics like ethics or

the synthesis of religion and science are addressed in my classes,” explains an engi-

neering major. In the absence of teaching assistants, professors are expected to

reserve about 10 hours per week for advising and assisting students outside of class.

Website: www .calvin .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,757

Undergraduates: 2,636

Male/Female: 47/53

Financial Aid: 100%

Pell Grant: 14%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 54%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 4,079

Accepted: 74%

Enrolled: 20%

Grad in 6 Years: 77%

Returning Freshmen: 86%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 688- 0122

Email Address: admissions @

calvin .edu

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Engineering

Education

Nursing

Philosophy

English

Religion

Asian Studies

“Although not every student

at Calvin is religious,

Christian ideals and morals

are very prevalent on

campus.”

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118 CALVIN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Forty- one percent of the classes at Calvin have fewer than 20 students and only a

few have more than 50. “The academic climate is rigorous, Christ- centered, sup-

portive, and honest,” says a junior, and students agree professors are accessible and

friendly. Students give high ratings to peer tutoring and mental health counseling

services.

Learning also takes place outside of the classroom through internships and

practicums, and more than 80 percent of students complete at least one internship

before they graduate. About 15 percent collabo-

rate with faculty on research projects. Calvin

offers 21 faculty- led off- campus programs in such

locales as Britain, Peru, Nepal, and Washington,

D.C., in addition to programs offered in conjunc-

tion with partner institutions. “Study abroad is a major part of Calvin,” enthuses a

junior, calling it “crucial in my Calvin experience.”

Though Calvin still has a strongly Dutch heritage, students who are members

of the Christian Reformed Church now account for just 24 percent of the student

body. “Calvin welcomes diversity of thought and challenges us to think deeply in all

areas,” remarks a political science major. Fifty- eight percent of students are Michigan

natives, and 14 percent are international. Black students constitute 5 percent of the

total, Hispanics/Latinos 4 percent, Asian Americans 5 percent, and multiracial stu-

dents 3 percent. “Political views are not a defining characteristic of campus, even

if they are discussed and argued in various settings,” says a junior. Eligible Calvin

students receive scholarships based on academic merit, worth an average of $22,700

annually; there are no athletic awards.

Calvin requires undergraduates to live on campus for three years. For their first

two years, students bunk in residence halls— each of which has separate wings for

men and women— in four- person suites with two bedrooms connected by a shared

bathroom. “The suites are typically set up with two freshmen on one side and two

sophomores on the other,” explains a nursing

major. Juniors can choose between residence

halls and on- campus apartments, and many

seniors opt to move off campus. Calvin offers

three intentional living/learning floors, “which

provide a place for students passionate about

the arts, outdoor recreation, racial justice, etc.,”

explains a human resource management major.

Students report “the food is good enough to be picky” at the dining facilities and

most praise the variety available. Safety is highly rated. “The Sexual Assault

Prevention Team is active on campus, and Campus Safety is patrolling 24/7, even

during school breaks,” notes a sophomore.

“Calvin is a dry campus, and there is no Greek life, but the students aren’t

uptight— meaning that those who are of legal age take advantage of going to bars

and breweries in Grand Rapids for a drink with friends on the weekends,” says a

senior. The downtown area also offers restaurants, coffee shops, minor- league sports,

galleries, and the annual ArtPrize festival and competition. On campus, students

find a wealth of entertainment, including movies, speakers, concerts, and dances.

Popular annual traditions include Chaos Night, which brings the dorms together for

an evening of wacky games and athletic contests. The Cokes and Clubs event “allows

50- plus student organizations to gather on the central lawn. Incoming students

receive (a bottle of Coke, of course!) information about each club to facilitate

involvement from the start,” raves a senior. Hardy souls look forward to the Cold

Knight Plunge, where hundreds of students voluntarily jump into the frozen

Seminary Pond each winter, led by the college president and university pastor. Road

“Calvin welcomes diversity

of thought and challenges

us to think deeply in all

areas.”

“The students aren’t uptight—

meaning that those who

are of legal age take

advantage of going to

bars and breweries in

Grand Rapids for a drink

with friends.”

Hardy souls look

forward to the Cold

Knight Plunge, where

hundreds of students

voluntarily jump into

the frozen Seminary

Pond each winter.

Most campus facilities

are less than 50 years

old and were designed

by a student of Frank

Lloyd Wright.

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CARLETON COLLEGE 119

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Carleton College

Northfield, MN 55057

Less selective than Amherst, Williams, and Swarthmore, if only because of its

out- of- the- way Minnesota location. Carleton retains its position as the premier

liberal arts college in the upper Midwest. Predominantly liberal, but not to the

extremes of its more antiestablishment cousins, and turns out lots of students who

go on to get Ph.D.s. Students at Carleton excel at making their own fun, especially

with frisbees in hand.

Minnesota is many things: the land of 10,000 lakes, home to the massive Mall of

America, birthplace of lore from Hiawatha to Paul Bunyan, and proud parent of the

Mississippi River. Beyond all that history- book stuff, tucked into a small town in the

southeastern corner of the state is Carleton College, arguably the best liberal arts

school in the Midwest. Add to this badminton competitions that raise money to

fight cancer, an expulsion of Coca- Cola from campus for human rights violations,

and an all- day spring music festival known as “Sproncert,” and you have the mak-

ings of an engaged, unique institution. “Carleton is quirky, and we’re not afraid to

embrace our quirk. In fact, we revel in it,” says a biology major.

Carleton was founded in 1866 and named for an early benefactor. Surrounded

by rolling farmland, Carleton’s 1,040- acre campus is in the small town of Northfield,

whose one- time status as the center of the Holstein cattle industry brought it the

motto “Cows, Colleges, and Contentment.” The campus boasts of fragrant lilacs in

spring, rich summer greens, red maples in the fall, and a glistening blanket of white

in winter. Lakes, woods, and streams abound, and you can traverse them on 15

miles of hiking and cross- country skiing trails. There’s even an 880- acre arboretum.

Carleton’s architectural style is somewhat eclectic, with everything from Victorian to

Website: www .carleton .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,017

Undergraduates: 2,017

Male/Female: 49/51

Financial Aid: 82%

Pell Grant: 17%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 37%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 8,583

Accepted: 17%

Enrolled: 37%

Grad in 6 Years: 91%

Returning Freshmen: 95%

trips include the beaches of Lake Michigan (a 45- minute drive) or Chicago (three

hours distant). Spring break trips see a number of students traveling to places like

Mississippi and Louisiana to complete service projects.

Calvin fields a robust Division III athletic program that competes in the Michigan

Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA). In 2022, the university announced the

addition of football, women’s acrobatics and tumbling, and men’s volleyball to its

portfolio of athletic offerings with new facilities to house them. Particularly compet-

itive Knights teams include women’s volleyball, men’s and women’s cross- country,

and men’s and women’s soccer. Calvin’s competition with Hope College is one of

the great rivalries in Division III athletics and current students and alumni alike rally

together for the annual basketball game. The intramural program offers leagues and

tournaments in sports ranging from dodgeball to ultimate Frisbee and flag football;

half of all undergraduates participate.

Those who come to Calvin University are looking to build community with

friends and faculty members who share their passion for faith- based academics. Says

one junior, “The love of learning is prevalent on campus. Many students are eager

to absorb information and learn more about God’s creation.”

Overlaps

Hope, Wheaton

(IL), Taylor,

St. Olaf, Cedarville,

Cornerstone

University, Dordt,

Messiah

If You Apply To ›

Calvin: Rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

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120 CARLETON COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

contemporary, but mostly red brick. Recent additions include Hasenstab Hall, home

to the political science department, and a multi- year Student Life and Housing Plan

to improve campus residences is ongoing.

Carleton’s top- notch academic programs are no less varied. The sciences— biology,

physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, and computer science— are among the best

anywhere, and scores of Carleton graduates go on to earn Ph.D.s in these areas.

Political science/international relations is a tradi-

tional strength; mathematics and psychology are

popular too. Engineers can opt for a 3– 2 program

with Washington University in St. Louis, and for

geologists seeking fieldwork— and maybe wanting to thaw out after a long Minnesota

winter— Carleton sponsors a program in Death Valley. Closer to home at the “arb,”

as the arboretum is affectionately known, students in the well- regarded environ-

mental studies program have their own wilderness field station, which includes a

prairie- restoration site. At the opposite end of the academic spectrum, the arts also

flourish. Music and studio art majors routinely get into top graduate programs, and

the college has expanded offerings in dance and theater. Carleton offers interdisci-

plinary programs in Asian, Jewish, urban, African and African American, and wom-

en’s studies. A minor in cross- cultural studies brings in international students to

discuss global issues and dynamics with their American counterparts. Seventy per-

cent of Carleton students spend at least one term abroad; offerings include 18 to 20

faculty- led programs every year. Seventy- seven percent of students conduct under-

graduate research.

Distribution requirements ensure that a Carleton education exposes students

not only to rigor and depth in their chosen field, but also to “a wide range of sub-

jects and methods of studying them,” administrators say. All students must show

proficiency in writing and a second language while fulfilling requirements in the

areas of humanistic and social inquiry, literary/artistic analysis, the arts, science, and

quantitative reasoning. There’s also a Global Citizenship requirement, under which

students must take one course on international studies and one course on intercul-

tural domestic studies, and a first- year Argument and Inquiry Seminar. In their final

year, all students complete a senior comprehensive project (known around campus

as “Comps”).

With highly motivated students and an “entirely rigorous” workload, according

to a biology major, Carleton isn’t your typical mellow Midwestern liberal arts col-

lege. The trimester calendar means finals may be just three months apart, and almost

everyone feels the pressure. “I often joke that the

hottest social spot at our school is the library,”

says a linguistics major. The five- week Christmas

vacation is Carleton’s way of dealing with the

cold winters. Seventy percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, so Carls are

expected to participate actively. Carleton’s faculty members are accessible and com-

mitted. “My professors are personal mentors as much as they are formal educators,”

says a physics major. As part of its extensive advising program, Carleton assigns a

“liberal arts advisor” to work with entering students for their first two years.

“Students here have a sense of adventure and curiosity,” says a senior. Not to

be confused with the quintessentially Midwestern students across town at St. Olaf,

17 percent of Carleton students are Minnesota residents, and 10 percent are inter-

national. More than half of the out- of- staters are from outside the Midwest, with

both coasts heavily represented. Black students account for 7 percent of the student

body, Hispanics/Latinos 9 percent, Asian Americans 10 percent, and multiracial stu-

dents 9 percent. “As a person of color, it’s easy to find other people of color, and we

form a tight- knit community,” says a sophomore. The Carleton campus is decidedly

(continued)

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 995- 2275

Email Address: admissions @

carleton .edu

Strong Programs:

Biology

Physics

Computer Science

Political Science/International

Relations

Environmental Studies

Music

Studio Art

Mathematics

“I often joke that the hottest

social spot at our school is

the library.”

Students in the

well- regarded

environmental studies

program have their

own wilderness

field station.

“Students here have a

sense of adventure and

curiosity.”

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CARLETON COLLEGE 121

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liberal (“I have watched the conservative minority at this school vanish,” remarks a

senior), concerned with issues including climate change, gender and racial equality,

and LGBTQ rights, and students are active in the local community. Carleton meets

the full demonstrated financial need of all enrolled students, and all financial aid is

need- based— there are no merit or athletic scholarships.

Eighty- one percent of Carleton students live on campus, and housing is guaran-

teed for all four years; those who wish to live off campus must receive approval to

do so. On- campus options range from comfortable old houses to modern hotel- like

residence halls. “All dorms are quite livable and not all that different,” says a fresh-

man. Dorms are co- ed by room, but there are two halls with single- sex floors. Several

college- owned “theme” houses, situated in an attractive residential section of town

close to campus, focus on special interests such as social activism and the outdoors;

the Farm House is an environmental studies house located on the edge of the arb.

All campus residents must submit to a meal plan, to the chagrin of many. “I would

not want to be a vegan or vegetarian and go to Carleton,” gripes a freshman.

Fortunately, students can also use their meal plans at neighboring St. Olaf, where

the food gets rave reviews. Students say the campus is safe, especially given its small-

town location.

Absent a Greek system, Carleton’s social life tends to be relaxed and informal, as

well as campus- based. “Parties can often be closer to a post– 9 to 5 happy hour than

a frat rager,” says a freshman. A group called Co- op sponsors dances and Wednesday

socials every two weeks, free movies, and special

events like Comedy Night. Students say there is

no pressure to drink on campus. Popular annual

events include the Midwinter Ball, the Spring

Concert, and Mai Fete, a gala celebrated on an

island in one of the two lakes on campus. Traditions include the weeklong freshman

orientation program, where, during opening convocation, students bombard profes-

sors with bubbles as the faculty members process. Another distinctive Carleton tra-

dition is the regular liberation and dramatic reappearance of a plaster bust of

Friedrich Schiller, the Romantic philosopher and buddy of Goethe— such as dan-

gling from a helicopter over homecoming football games.

Northfield itself is a history- rich town with a population of about 21,000. A

favorite town event is the annual reenactment of Jesse James’s failed bank robbery

in 1876. “Northfield is quaint,” a sophomore says, with old- style shops, a beautiful

old hotel, cafés, and a handful of bars and breweries. Students often frequent

St. Olaf’s campus and a popular coffee shop called Goodbye Blue Monday.

Minneapolis- St. Paul, 35 miles to the north, is a popular road- trip destination.

Students aren’t allowed to have cars on campus, but daily bus service is available.

The Knights compete in Division III athletics. Men’s and women’s cross- country

have won multiple Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference titles in recent

years, and men’s soccer and men’s and women’s tennis and track and field are also

competitive. “Carleton’s rivalry with St. Olaf is present in every sport,” notes

one student. “Carls have recently resorted to call-

ing St. Olaf ‘Northfield Community College!’”

The school’s powerhouse ultimate Frisbee club

teams have won several national championships.

About three quarters of the students compete in 24 club and 14 intramural sports,

including broomball in the winter and Rotblatt, a game described as “softball on

steroids” and unique to Carleton. “Played once each spring, this marathon softball

game begins at sunrise and lasts one inning for each year of Carleton’s existence. It

is Rotblatt tradition for players to both bat and field with a beverage of their choice

in one hand.”

The trimester

calendar means

finals may be just

three months apart,

and almost everyone

feels the pressure.

“As a person of color, it’s

easy to find other people of

color, and we form a tight-

knit community.”

During the opening

convocation

students bombard

professors with

bubbles as the faculty

members process.

“Parties can often be closer

to a post– 9 to 5 happy hour

than a frat rager.”

Overlaps

Bowdoin, Williams,

Amherst, Pomona,

Swarthmore,

Grinnell,

Middlebury,

University of

Chicago

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122 CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Carnegie Mellon University

5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213- 3890

The only premier university equally strong in both technology and the arts, Carnegie

Mellon is a national leader in blending interdisciplinary and practical education.

Applications continue to increase, so it must be doing something right. Shares its

urban neighborhood with a variety of cultural and academic institutions, including

the University of Pittsburgh. Working hard to reduce student stress levels.

Students at Carnegie Mellon don’t have to choose between soaking up the high

drama of Shakespeare and plunging into the fast- paced tech world. The university

is known for both its science offerings and strong drama and music programs. But

scholars can’t just focus on their own course of study— Carnegie Mellon continues

to strive to offer both its technical and liberal arts students a well- rounded education

that requires a lot of hard work but promises great rewards.

Tracing its origins to 1900, when industrialist Andrew Carnegie founded a tech-

nical school for the children of Pittsburgh’s blue- collar workers, Carnegie Mellon

was formed by the merger of Carnegie Institute of Technology and the Mellon

Institute in 1967. Its self- contained, 157- acre

campus is attractively situated in Pittsburgh’s

affluent Oakland section. Next door is the city’s

second- largest park and its major museum,

named after— you guessed it— Andrew Carnegie.

Henry Hornbostel, who attended the École des Beaux- Arts in the 1890s, designed

the campus using a plan that is a modification of the Jefferson plan for the University

of Virginia, with the Beaux- Arts device of creating primary and secondary axes and

grouping buildings around significant open spaces. Buildings are designed in a

Renaissance style, with buff- colored brick arches and piers, tile roofs, and terra cotta

and granite details. The $75 million Scaife Hall of Engineering is part of an ongoing

revitalization and expansion of the university’s engineering facilities.

Carnegie Mellon has seven constituent colleges that offer undergraduate and

graduate degrees: the College of Fine Arts, the Dietrich College of Humanities and

Social Sciences, the College of Engineering, the Mellon College of Science, the

School of Computer Science, the Tepper School of Business, and the Heinz College

of Information Systems and Public Policy. Each college has its own distinct character

and admissions requirements. All the colleges, however, share the university’s com-

mitment to interdisciplinary and practical education, which shows the relevance

of the liberal arts while stressing courses that develop technical skills and good job

Website: www .cmu .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 15,697

Undergraduates: 7,276

Male/Female: 49/51

Financial Aid: 51%

Pell Grant: 15%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 34%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 34,261

Accepted: 11%

Enrolled: 44%

Grad in 6 Years: 92%

Returning Freshmen: 97%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (412) 268- 2082

Email Address: admission @

andrew .cmu .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Computer Science

Architecture

Drama

“[Courses are] extremely

rigorous with many hours

expected outside of the

classroom.”

It can be cold in Minnesota, in a face- stinging, bone- chilling kind of way. And

the classes are far from easy. But Carleton is a warm campus where students toe the

line between individuality and community. At Carleton, says one student, “It isn’t

about getting the degree; it’s about having an impactful experience where students

learn more about themselves and the world they live in.”

If You Apply To ›

Carleton: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult

Carleton’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY 123

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

prospects. Students interested in humanities and social science can major in applied

history, professional writing, or information systems, for example, instead of tradi-

tional disciplinary concentrations.

Most departments at Carnegie Mellon are strong, but exceptional ones include

engineering, computer science, architecture, and drama. The undergraduate busi-

ness program focuses on the technical aspects of management and quantitative

decision- making. The most popular majors are

computer science, business administration, elec-

trical and computer engineering, and mechani-

cal engineering. Initiatives aimed at connecting

art and technology include the Integrative Design, Arts, and Technology network,

which offers interdisciplinary minors like game design, animation and special

effects, and innovation and entrepreneurship.

Courses are “extremely rigorous with many hours expected outside of the class-

room,” says one student. Students at Carnegie Mellon work hard, no doubt about it,

and many complain that the academic environment encourages a serious culture of

stress, but the university has taken steps to try to counteract that. Every day includes

a designated “meeting- free” time for students, allowing them time to study or partic-

ipate in student activities. A mechanical and biomedical engineering double major

notes that there is a “mindfulness room” that serves as “a space for students to relax

and take a break from schoolwork” (and get weekly visits from trained therapy dogs),

and that students are encouraged to use campus counseling services “even if it is just

to discuss stress and how to manage a new environment.” Students also recommend

the Academic Development Office, and one says, “There is absolutely no stigma

against tutoring or outside resources.” Seventy percent of classes have fewer than 20

students, and professors rate highly with most students. “Some professors are better

than others at lecturing, but I have not encountered a professor that doesn’t care

about the course,” says an electrical and computer engineering major.

Students looking to hone their professional skills will find ample opportunities,

including five- year dual- degree options, co- op programs, and advising and other

resources within the Career and Professional Development Center. Research oppor-

tunities are available across the curriculum, as

are several types of grants and fellowships to

fund them. Those interested in service learning

can get involved with the university’s extensive

outreach efforts to improve youth STEM education in the local area. Study abroad

options are plentiful and include the university’s established undergraduate campus

in the Arabian Gulf nation of Qatar, but many students have difficulty fitting study

abroad into their rigorous schedules.

“CMU is for people who know what they want to do,” asserts one student.

Despite the university’s core emphasis on interdisciplinary, well- rounded education,

Carnegie Mellon remains one of the most fragmented campuses in the nation.

Students divide themselves between actors, designers, and other artsy types and

engineers, scientists, and architects. “Most CMU students own up to their identities

as nerds, whether they be of the drama, history, or science variety,” says a math

major. In any case, students here are all high achievers and are united in their quest

for a good job after graduation.

Once a largely regional institution, drawing mostly Pennsylvania residents,

Carnegie Mellon now counts 66 percent of its full- time undergraduate students from

out of state, including 24 percent from foreign countries, and they’ve eliminated

legacy preferences in admissions. Half are students of color, including 32 percent

Asian American, 4 percent Black, 10 percent Hispanic/Latino, and 5 percent mul-

tiracial. Students report that campus politics lean liberal, but most students don’t

(continued)

Music

Business Administration

Art

Design

“I have not encountered a

professor that doesn’t care

about the course.”

Students looking

to hone their

professional skills

will find ample

opportunities,

including five- year

dual- degree options.

“CMU is for people who

know what they want

to do.”

Carnegie Mellon was

formed by the merger

of Carnegie Institute

of Technology

and the Mellon

Institute in 1967.

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124 CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

get actively involved in social or political matters. The university says it remains

committed to need- blind admissions and guarantees to meet the full demonstrated

financial need of domestic students, including permanent residents and DACA stu-

dents. Most financial aid is need- based, and there are no merit- or athletic- based

awards. “Financial aid is not the most generous in comparison to peer institutions,”

remarks a student, in part because Carnegie Mellon’s endowment is smaller.

Housing is guaranteed for undergraduates all four years if they stay in the uni-

versity housing system, and 46 percent do so. Upperclassmen get first pick, so the

popular university- owned apartments fill up fast, but there are a number of resi-

dence halls specifically for first- year students. The quality of each dorm varies, says

a junior, but “the facilities are all very livable.” The best dorms for freshmen are

Stever House— the first LEED- certified residence hall in the U.S.— Donner, Resnik,

and Morewood Gardens. “Instead of buffet- style dining halls, we have several

themed eateries that you can pick from,” explains a sophomore, and meals are

described as satisfying. Students report feeling safe on campus, thanks to a compre-

hensive security program, but one comments, “There is not enough campus conver-

sation or emphasis on the issue of sexual assault.”

With all the academic pressure at Carnegie Mellon, it’s a good thing there are so

many opportunities to unwind, especially with the entire city of Pittsburgh close at

hand. “Pittsburgh is a great place to go to col-

lege,” cheers a junior. “Whatever type of evening

you’re looking for, Pittsburgh has it.” Nearby

Oakland has coffeehouses, inexpensive films,

dances, and concerts, and the downtown area

(just 20 minutes away by bus) offers a rich social scene, with opera, ballet, sym-

phony, concerts, and sporting events.

The Greek system provides the most visible form of on- campus social life, with

14 percent of men and 11 percent of women joining fraternities and sororities, and

the school offers late- night events and concerts too. Those of legal age are allowed

to have alcohol in their rooms, but according to one student, “Drinking takes place

mostly off campus.” One event that brings everyone together is the Spring Carnival,

a four- day weekend festival. Student groups build themed booths and design, build,

and race buggies made of lightweight alloys. Members of the student- run “Scotch ’n’

Soda” theater organization also present a show.

As for sports, the Carnegie Mellon Tartans compete in the Division III University

Athletic Association. The Kiltie Band, clad in kilts honoring Andrew Carnegie’s

Scottish heritage, rallies the crowd during home football and basketball games. In

recent years, men’s and women’s golf and cross- country, men’s indoor track and

field, and women’s soccer have performed well in their respective national cham-

pionship tournaments. Students also participate in 47 intramural and club sports.

Carnegie Mellon appeals just as much to those yearning for the bright lights of

Broadway as it does to those pursuing the glowing computer screens of the scientific

and business worlds. And with a broad range of liberal arts and technical courses

available to explore, there’s no doubt students leave with a well- rounded

education— and an impressive diploma. Students more interested in specializing in

one field than being exposed to many may fare better elsewhere, but most who opt

for Carnegie Mellon agree that the demanding environment is well worth it.

One event that

brings everyone

together is the Spring

Carnival, a four- day

weekend festival.

“Instead of buffet- style

dining halls, we have

several themed eateries

that you can pick from.”

Overlaps

UC Berkeley,

Northwestern,

University of

Southern California,

Boston University,

Princeton, Cornell,

MIT, UCLA

If You Apply To ›

Carnegie Mellon: Early decision, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Apply to particular school or college.

Please consult Carnegie Mellon’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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CASE WESTERN RESERVE 125

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Case Western Reserve

103 Tomlinson Hall, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106

CWRU has most of the offerings available at Carnegie Mellon or WashU in St. Louis,

but somehow it hasn’t quite found its deserved niche in the national consciousness.

Students in the know sing its praises, especially since CWRU is less difficult to get

into than other institutions of comparable, or even lesser, quality. Students get an

outstanding technical education with solid offerings in other areas.

Cleveland’s Case Western Reserve has much in common with Pittsburgh’s Carnegie

Mellon. Both are the product of mergers between a technical college, known for

excellence in engineering, and a more traditional university, focused on the arts

and sciences. Both are located in erstwhile Rust Belt cities that have long since rein-

vented themselves through technology, medicine, education, and advanced manu-

facturing. And both tend to attract brainy students more concerned with studying

than socializing. While CWRU has received less national attention than Carnegie

Mellon and WashU, a senior calls it “a university on the rise”: applications have

nearly doubled since 2013, and the school has become more selective. CWRU has

also increased its investment in the arts, humanities, and social sciences, with an

aim toward helping students connect these disciplines with their technical studies.

CWRU is located on the eastern edge of Cleveland, at University Circle. This

550- acre area of parks and gardens is home to more than 50 cultural, educational,

medical, and research institutions, including the city’s museums of art and natural

history, its botanical gardens, and Severance Hall, home of the Cleveland Orchestra.

Campus buildings are an eclectic mix of architectural styles, and several are listed

on the National Register of Historic Places. The Peter B. Lewis Building (or “PBL,” as

it’s known around campus), designed by Frank Gehry, is home to the Weatherhead

School of Management and features undulating walls similar to those of Gehry’s

Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain. The Tinkham Veale University Center (“the

Tink”) meets LEED Silver standards and serves as a hub for campus dining, special

events, and more than 200 student organizations, while the Sears think[box] is a

fabrication lab designed to support cross- disciplinary entrepreneurial innovation.

The product of the 1967 marriage between Case Institute of Technology and

Western Reserve University, CWRU has four undergraduate schools: the College

of Arts and Sciences, the Case School of Engineering, the Bolton School of Nursing,

and the aforementioned Weatherhead School;

all also offer graduate programs. All CWRU stu-

dents participate in a general education program

known as SAGES— the Seminar Approach to

General Education and Scholarship. Emphasizing small seminars, critical thinking,

and writing, the program requires four seminars, a writing portfolio, and a senior

capstone experience that can be an individual or group effort. According to a bio-

medical engineering major, “CWRU is a collaborative environment that allows stu-

dents to excel in their own way.”

CWRU’s strongest programs include engineering— especially the biomedical

and mechanical kind— nursing, business management, computer science, and pre-

architecture. The school’s polymer science major is one of the few such undergrad-

uate programs in the country. Strengths in the College of Arts and Sciences include

music (a joint program with the nearby Cleveland Institute of Music), psychology,

anthropology (especially medical anthropology), and biology. Combined bachelor’s

and master’s programs are popular, as is the Preprofessional Scholars program, which

Website: www .case .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 11,054

Undergraduates: 5,878

Male/Female: 52/48

Financial Aid: 98%

Pell Grant: 17%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 44%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 38,701

Accepted: 27%

Enrolled: 15%

Grad in 6 Years: 86%

Returning Freshmen: 93%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (216) 368- 4450

Email Address: admission @

case .edu

Strong Programs:

Biomedical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Nursing

Business Management

Computer Science

Pre- Architecture

Polymer Science

Music

Psychology

“The majority of instructors

are very good and willing to

help at any time.”

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126 CASE WESTERN RESERVE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

gives top freshmen conditional acceptance to CWRU’s medical or dental schools,

assuming satisfactory progress through prerequisite courses. Half of all undergrad-

uate classes enroll fewer than 20 students. “The quality of instruction is variable,”

says a biology major, “but the majority of instructors are very good and willing to

help at any time.”

Undergraduate research is highly encouraged, and 80 percent of students con-

duct research as part of senior capstone projects or independent studies. Thirty per-

cent of students take part in study abroad, often in faculty- led programs during

winter, spring, or summer breaks. For help with academic and career planning, every

undergraduate is assigned a faculty advisor as well as a “navigator,” a staff member

who assists them throughout their four years. “A navigator is a great resource for

nonmajor- specific questions relating to campus resources, academic resources, club

suggestions, etc.,” explains a freshman.

A senior says CWRU students are “driven, high achievers” who often “feel the

need to prove themselves.” Twenty- one percent of CWRU’s students are Ohio

natives, and international students represent a strong contingent at 15 percent.

Black students make up 7 percent of the student

body, Asian Americans 26 percent, Hispanics/

Latinos 12 percent, and multiracial students

4 percent. Diversity 360 is a campuswide training

program designed to increase knowledge and

awareness about diversity issues. Students describe the political climate as low- key,

with liberals and conservatives both well represented on campus. Eligible students

receive scholarships based on academic merit that average $26,000, but there are no

athletic awards. The university has adopted a need- aware admissions policy that

includes a commitment to meet the full demonstrated financial need of incoming

freshmen.

Students are required to live on campus for their first two years, and 75 per-

cent of all undergrads live in campus housing. Each first- year student participates

in one of four residential colleges. “First- year rooms are adequate but nothing spe-

cial,” says one student, but upperclassmen rave about the amenities in the universi-

ty’s apartment- style suites. Dining- hall fare is “not Mom’s cooking every night, but

it’s not bad,” reasons one student. Some upperclassmen opt for off- campus apart-

ments within walking distance of campus. “As it is an urban campus, crime does

occasionally happen in the surrounding area or (rarely) on campus,” reports a

psychology major. “The school takes many strong measures to keep students safe,

including many security officers and free rides across campus at night.”

As for social life, says a junior, “Case is not ideal for anyone who prioritizes a

vibrant social scene, but students who enjoy being social and going to parties/bars

are able to find enough opportunities.” On campus, there are dances, concerts, and

movies. Fraternities and sororities draw 17 percent of the men and 22 percent of the

women, but students report that Greek groups here are more focused on philan-

thropy than partying. Popular campus traditions include the Springfest carnival to

celebrate the end of classes and “Study Overs,” where students gather during finals

week for free food, massages, study groups, and more. The annual sci- fi movie mar-

athon is a rite of passage, while Engineering Week features a fuel- cell- powered car

competition.

CWRU is located five miles from downtown Cleveland, which provides ample

opportunities for internships, volunteer work, dining, and entertainment. “We’re

surrounded by museums and cultural institutions, which become a part of our edu-

cation,” enthuses a history major. “It’s very budget- friendly,” adds a senior. The city

features the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and— in the warmer months— major league

baseball games at Progressive Field. Convenient RTA train passes are included in

The school’s polymer

science major is

one of the few such

undergraduate

programs in

the country.

“Students who enjoy being

social and going to parties/

bars are able to find

enough opportunities.”

The 26- mile Hudson

Relay pits teams of

runners from the

four classes against

one another.

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THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA 127

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The Catholic University of America

Washington, D.C. 20064

There are other Roman Catholic– affiliated universities, but this is THE Catholic

University. Catholics make up 69 percent of the undergraduate student body here

(versus roughly half at nearby Georgetown). If you can’t be in Rome, there is no

better place than D.C. to work and play. CUA even has a Metrorail stop right next to

campus. Academic freedom is the norm except in theology.

Founded in 1887 under a charter from Pope Leo XIII— making it a “pontifical”

university— The Catholic University of America was the brainchild of U.S. bishops

who wanted to provide an American educational institution where the curriculum

was guided by the tenets of Roman Catholic

thought. Over time, the university has garnered

a reputation as a research- oriented school that

also provides a strong undergraduate, preprofes-

sional education and an appreciation for the arts.

Faced in recent years with the challenges of

declining enrollment and changing demographics and social attitudes, top adminis-

trators have nonetheless doubled down on the university’s image of “cultivating

Catholic minds,” sparking renewed debate on campus about whether CUA is mar-

keting itself as “too Catholic” and making itself less welcoming to prospective

Website: www .catholic .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 3,594

Undergraduates: 2,786

Male/Female: 44/56

Financial Aid: 96%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 60%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 5,801

“CUA is not necessarily

tough, but there are

moments where you

may be intellectually or

academically challenged.”

student charges for a reasonable price, but having a car can be helpful, especially for

road trips to nearby cities in Ohio or for longer jaunts to Chicago.

Although sports are not a major focus on campus, the Spartans field 17 Division

III teams, and the annual football game against Carnegie Mellon is big. Baseball and

softball are recent University Athletic Association champions, and men’s and wom-

en’s cross- country, men’s tennis, and women’s

soccer are nationally competitive. Twenty- seven

percent of students participate in at least one of

the 25 intramural and 16 club sports available, ranging from flag football and pick-

leball to ice hockey, badminton, and fencing. The 26- mile Hudson Relay, held the

last week of the spring semester to commemorate CWRU’s relocation from Hudson

to Cleveland, pits teams of runners from the four classes against one another, with

each person running a half mile.

A rigorous, science- and engineering- oriented research university, CWRU also

devotes noteworthy attention to the student experience. “CWRU’s personality is

friendly and spirited,” says a senior. “People can be self- deprecating and make a lot

of jokes about Cleveland’s bad weather, but the campus community itself is warm

and inviting.” With challenging academics, preprofessional programs, and research

opportunities across all disciplines, students here are well- equipped to excel in their

future careers.

“The campus community

itself is warm and inviting.”

Overlaps

Carnegie Mellon,

Johns Hopkins,

Vanderbilt,

University of

Rochester,

Emory, WashU

in St. Louis, Ohio

State, University of

Michigan

If You Apply To ›

CWRU: Early decision I and II, early action I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Audition required for artists and musicians. Please consult CWRU’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding

standardized test requirements.

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128 THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

students in the process. “Our authentic Catholic background rules our academics,

campus activities, and institutional offices all over campus,” says a senior.

Catholic University’s campus comprises 176 tree- lined acres, an impressive

layout for an urban university, and houses 34 research facilities. Buildings range

from ivy- covered limestone and brick to ultramodern, giving the place a true col-

legiate feel. A new 500- seat dining facility opened in 2022, and a new nursing and

sciences building was scheduled to open 2024.

CUA is one of the few schools in the country that began as a graduate institution

(others are Clark University and The Johns Hopkins University), and grad students

still account for a respectable portion of the student population. Ten of its 12 schools

admit undergrads. Specific graduation requirements vary by program, but all under-

graduates participate in the First- Year Experience, an introduction to CUA’s brand

of liberal arts guided by the Catholic intellectual tradition. Assigned to Learning

Communities of about 18 classmates, students take core classes in philosophy, the-

ology, and English, and they receive one- on- one academic advising throughout the

year. First- years also join their Learning Communities for out- of- class activities and

group excursions into the city.

Students have excellent options in almost any department at CUA. In addition

to politics, which is the most popular major and sets the tone on campus, psychol-

ogy, business, and physics are strong. The physics department enjoys a modern

vitreous- state lab, a boon for both research and

hands- on undergraduate instruction. The School

of Nursing is one of the best in the nation.

Engineering and architecture are highly regarded

and have outstanding facilities; environmental engineering is the university’s

newest major. The Benjamin T. Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art is best

known for its music offerings, including a joint degree that combines music with

business. The National Catholic School of Social Service offers a bachelor of social

work degree.

In the classroom, says a politics major, “CUA is not necessarily tough, but

there are moments where you may be intellectually or academically challenged.”

Sixty- seven percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, which means indi-

vidual attention from faculty members is common. According to a sophomore,

professors “teach with passion, and it is apparent that they love what they do.”

About 60 percent of faculty members are Catholic (the Vatican requires that figure

to be at least 50 percent). Clergy are at the helm of the School of Theology and

Religious Studies and the graduate School of Canon Law. CUA’s chancellor is the

archbishop of Washington, mass is held on campus daily, and Catholic churches

across the country donate a fraction of their annual collections to the university.

One corollary of being the only Catholic school with a papal charter is that offi-

cials in Rome, who do not always warm up to American traditions of academic

freedom, keep a sharp eye on who teaches in the theology school and what they

write and say.

Top students are invited to enroll in the University Honors Program, which fea-

tures challenging seminar- style classes and the option of living in a dedicated honors

community. The university offers a wide variety of education abroad programs in

more than 75 locations around the globe; 31 percent of students participate. The

flagship Rome Center, jointly operated by CUA and an Australian counterpart,

sponsors programs for liberal arts and architecture students, as well as a three- week

summer program for the First- Year Experience. Eighty percent of students complete

at least one internship at organizations ranging from NASA and the National

Institutes of Health to the Smithsonian Institution. Students give mixed reviews to

career and counseling services.

(continued)

Accepted: 86%

Enrolled: 15%

Grad in 6 Years: 74%

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (202) 319- 5305

Email Address: cua

-admissions @ cua .edu

Strong Programs:

Politics

Psychology

Business

Physics

Nursing

Engineering

Architecture

Music

“[Professors] teach with

passion, and it is apparent

that they love what they do.”

CUA’s chancellor is

the archbishop of

Washington, and

Catholic churches

across the country

donate a fraction

of their annual

collections to

the university.

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THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA 129

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

CUA students are “very open to friendship,” comments a philosophy major,

and they tend to have “a healthy sense of ambition.” Catholicism is clearly the tie

that binds the student body, with 69 percent of students identifying as Catholic.

Most students are also conservative, although some socially liberal causes are slowly

gaining traction on campus; students report that the administration’s insistence on

single- sex dorms, refusal to recognize LGBTQ student groups, and ban on speakers

who have expressed pro- choice views have been controversial among the student

body. “It is hard for a lot of students to reconcile their own personal set of beliefs

with the Catholic identity of the school, which can be said even for many of the

students who are Catholic themselves,” remarks a politics major. Ninety- three per-

cent of undergraduates are from outside D.C.; 2 percent arrive from foreign coun-

tries and most of the rest hail from the Northeast. Five percent are Black, 17 percent

are Hispanic/Latino, 3 percent are Asian American, and 4 percent are multiracial.

Catholic University maintains a need- blind admissions policy, and all applicants are

considered for merit scholarships, which average $28,000. No athletic scholarships

are available.

Sixty- two percent of undergraduates live in the 16 single- sex residence halls,

which are intended to foster an environment of virtuous living. On- campus housing

offers a variety of options ranging from the traditional to suites and apartments.

“Most of the residence halls are nice and com-

fortable enough to make your own impermanent

home,” says a politics major. Campus fare is a

mixed blessing: “The dining is unlimited, which

is awesome for big appetites,” says one student. “The problem is that it’s overpriced

and bland.” Shuttle buses and safety escort services are provided as part of campus

security, and students agree that they feel safe on campus, as long as they are careful.

The Peer Educators Empowering Respectful Students (PEERS) group helps to raise

awareness about sexual assault prevention.

When students want to explore the city, they need only walk to the Brookland-

CUA Metrorail stop adjacent to campus and then enjoy the ride. Capitol Hill is

15 minutes away and the stylish Georgetown area, with its chic restaurants and

nightspots, a half hour. “Because we’re in the city, most students would rather get

dressed up to go out to a bar than to a house party,” observes a senior. CUA does not

have a Greek system, and most students agree that school policies are effective in

curbing underage drinking. On campus, students have their choice of more than

100 clubs and organizations. Campus Ministry offers numerous opportunities to

engage in faith and service through frequent community service events, student

retreats, summer mission trips, and other programs. Forty- six percent of students

regularly participate in community service. Annual activities on campus include Fall

Festival, the Capital Fest concert featuring a well- known band, Mistletoe Ball,

Founders Day Ball, and Cardinalpalooza, a popular celebration of the end of the

academic year.

CUA’s Cardinals compete in Division III. Women’s lacrosse has won 13 Landmark

Conference championships in the last 16 years, and other recent winners include

women’s field hockey and men’s soccer, swimming and diving, and lacrosse.

Intramural and club- level programs attract plenty of interest, too, especially basket-

ball, indoor soccer, and ultimate Frisbee.

When the idea of a Catholic university was first raised, the man who would

become the university’s first rector, Bishop John Joseph Keane, argued for an insti-

tution that would “exercise a dominant influence in the world’s future” with a supe-

rior intellectual foundation. Now, 136 years later, CUA offers students a wealth of

preprofessional courses spanning the arts and sciences. Even as it grapples with how

best to express and uphold its Catholic identity, the university remains dedicated to

“The dining is unlimited,

which is awesome for big

appetites.”

Most students are

also conservative,

although some

socially liberal causes

are slowly gaining

traction on campus.

Forty- six percent of

students regularly

participate in

community service.

Overlaps

Notre Dame,

Villanova, Fordham,

Loyola University

Maryland, Saint

Joseph’s University,

Georgetown,

American

University, Fairfield

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130 CENTRE COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Centre College

600 West Walnut, Danville, KY 40422

BEST

BUY

Centre may not be the most famous institution of higher learning in Kentucky, but it

is certainly the best, and it offers college the way it used to be— football games, Greek

row, and a decades- old tradition of streaking through campus and circling a statue of

a flame (nude). There is also the closeness between students and faculty that comes

with a student body of 1,300. Compare to Sewanee, Rhodes, and Davidson.

Centre College, the only independent school in Kentucky with a Phi Beta Kappa

chapter, has produced two- thirds of the state’s Rhodes scholars over the last 40 years.

But the school is not all work and no play. It’s also a retro throwback to the way

college used to be, with Friday night parties on Greek row and Saturday afternoon

football games. Centre’s small size offers an intimate classroom environment. And

its liberal arts focus means that despite Centre’s southern location, students are pro-

gressive, intellectual, and perhaps more well- rounded than their peers at neighbor-

ing schools.

Located in the heart of Kentucky Bluegrass country, Centre’s campus is a mix

of old Greek Revival and attractive modern buildings. More than 14 of them are

listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, a fact that’s less surprising when

you know that Centre, which dates to 1819, is the 48th oldest college in the United

States. The college is home to four LEED- certified buildings, including two at the

Gold level. Newer facilities include a 135,000- square- foot athletics complex featur-

ing an aquatic center, an indoor track and turf field, a strength and conditioning

center, and a nutrition and wellness center.

Centre’s general education curriculum requires coursework in each of the col-

lege’s three academic divisions: arts and humanities, social studies, and science and

mathematics. Students take three Doctrina Lux Mentis courses (named after the

school’s motto, Latin for “Learning is the light of

the mind”), beginning with a two- course sequence

in the first year that emphasizes written commu-

nication in the fall and oral communication in

the spring. The third course, taken junior or senior

year, focuses on interdisciplinary thinking and serves as a capstone experience.

Additionally, all students complete an experiential learning component, such as inde-

pendent research or community- based learning.

Centre’s most popular majors are economics and finance, international studies,

mathematics, and psychology. Other strong programs include politics, behavioral

neuroscience, and English. Art is solid, too, and glassblowing enthusiasts will find

one of the few fully equipped undergraduate facilities for their pursuit in the nation.

Centre launched a new business major in 2021. A 3– 2 program sends aspiring

Website: www .centre .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,343

Undergraduates: 1,343

Male/Female: 48/52

Financial Aid: 96%

Pell Grant: 22%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 52%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 2,746

Accepted: 62%

Enrolled: 23%

Grad in 6 Years: 87%

Returning Freshmen: 89%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 423- 6236

Email Address: admission @

centre .edu

Strong Programs:

Politics

Behavioral Neuroscience

English

Art

Economics and Finance

International Studies

Mathematics

Psychology

“Our small class sizes allow

professors to really feed off

of the energy and needs of

the class.”

its mission of providing “scholarly research, education, and service in the light of

the Catholic intellectual tradition.”

If You Apply To ›

Catholic: Early decision I, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: not considered. Accepts the Common Application.

Music applicants must audition.

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CENTRE COLLEGE 131

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

engineers on to one of four major universities, including the University of Kentucky

and Vanderbilt. Seventy- two percent of classes have fewer than 20 students. “My

professors took the time to really get to know me and my learning style,” says a

politics major. “Our small class sizes allow professors to really feed off of the energy

and needs of the class and make it a more personal environment.”

The Centre Commitment guarantees students an internship or research experi-

ence, a study abroad opportunity, and a degree in four years— or the college will

cover the cost of a fifth year of study. Approximately 65 percent of students choose

to engage in an internship, 37 percent perform collaborative research with faculty,

and 85 percent take advantage of Centre’s extensive study abroad programs. Centre

runs 13 regular semester- long programs for students in all majors in 10 countries,

including a new program in Bhutan, in addition to several shorter options offered

during the January term. A study- away semester in Washington, D.C., combines

coursework with internships. A psychology major highly recommends the college’s

career services: “They have monthly programs on ‘adulting’ and provide constant

assistance and support in the job- search process.”

Sixty- one percent of Centre students hail from Kentucky, and 5 percent arrive

from foreign nations. Black students represent 6 percent of the student body, Asian

Americans 4 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 7 percent, and multiracial students 4 per-

cent. Politically, the atmosphere is mostly liberal

and “not hugely charged,” says an international

studies major. Increasing diversity among faculty

and staff has been a particular focus of late.

Centre offers merit- based awards averaging

$33,600, but no athletic scholarships. Through

the Grissom Scholars Program, 10 incoming first- generation students per year are

awarded full- tuition scholarships plus $5,000 to support study abroad, research, or

an internship.

Virtually all students live on campus, thanks to a four- year residential require-

ment that students say makes for a strong sense of community. “As you gain senior-

ity, your housing options get nicer and nicer,” explains a sophomore. Suite- and

townhouse- style accommodations are available for upperclassmen, and small Greek

houses are an option for some, but most members of Greek life live in the residence

halls. Students dine in one main dining hall, Cowan, and three café- style eateries,

including Einstein Bros. Bagels, which recently opened in the library. “Cowan offers

many selections, except on weekends,” notes a senior. Students give high ratings to

campus safety.

Greek life is the center of the social scene, with 37 percent of men and 42 per-

cent of women joining up, and their parties are open to all. “Alcohol is a large part

of the weekend social life here for many students,” says a senior. The Student Activity

Council sponsors a variety of alternatives, such as free midnight movies at the local

theater and events like comedians, karaoke, and laser tag. Students also get free

admission to Centre’s separately endowed Norton Center for the Arts, a palatial,

1,500- seat auditorium that brings major musicals, concerts, and other performances

to campus. Homecoming in the fall and Carnival in the spring are big annual events.

Campus superstitions involve placing pennies on the toe of the Abraham Lincoln

statue for good luck on exams, and avoiding stepping on the Centre Seal so as not

to fail them. But Centre’s most hallowed (unofficial) tradition is “Running the

Flame” (remember that Latin motto?), which has students dashing from their resi-

dence halls to a large sculpture of a flame in the center of campus, circling it three

times, and running back— “naked, of course.” Community service through the

Greek system, Habitat for Humanity, or other organizations is another popular

activity. Danville (population 17,000) offers some small- town charm, but there is

All students

complete an

experiential learning

component, such as

independent research

or community-

based learning.

“By the time I reached my

senior year, I felt cultivated

as a public speaker, a

problem solver, and a

leader.”

Campus superstitions

involve placing

pennies on the toe

of the Abraham

Lincoln statue for

good luck on exams.

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132 CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Champlain College

251 South Willard Street, Burlington, VT 05401

A small college with a unique “upside- down” approach to blending professional

education and the liberal arts. Champlain’s major academic strengths are game

design, whose students tend to shape the campus culture, as well as business and

information technology. A good fit for students eager to get started in a career but

not a great place to explore options and find yourself. Social life revolves around

student- friendly Burlington, and nearby ski slopes beckon. Low graduation rate is

a challenge.

Situated on a hill overlooking the scenic Vermont lake for which it is named,

Champlain College has set out to reinvent the relationship between professional

studies and the liberal arts through its so- called upside- down curriculum. Instead

of following the traditional academic path— two years of general education courses

followed by two years of in- depth study in a major— students at Champlain imme-

diately pursue both their major and a highly structured liberal arts curriculum and

then continue this pattern simultaneously for all four years. This approach appeals

to career- minded students who still appreciate the value of a strong dose of the lib-

eral arts.

The college, whose roots date to 1878, sits on 22 acres in the historic Hill

Section of Burlington, adjacent to the University of Vermont. The core academic

campus consists of a mix of lovely restored Victorian mansions and complementary

modern structures of brick with slate roofs and green trim. The adjacent “lakeside”

campus houses the Leahy Center for Digital Investigation, while a “downtown”

campus, connected to the academic core by shuttle buses, provides housing and

Website: www .champlain .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,113

Undergraduates: 1,705

Male/Female: 63/37

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 24%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 68%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 6,766

Accepted: 56%

Enrolled: 14%

more to do in Lexington and Louisville, both within an hour’s drive, and it’s easy to

get to the countryside for camping, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits.

Centre’s football team has been around for more than a century, and while it

now competes against regional opponents in Division III, that wasn’t always the

case. In 1921 the Colonels beat then- powerhouse Harvard, six to zero, a triumph

that has been called the greatest sports upset in the first half of the 20th century.

Nowadays, Rhodes College and nearby Transylvania University are Centre’s key

rivals. Men’s and women’s soccer, track and field, and cross- country are particularly

competitive. A majority of the student body regularly participates in the intramural

program, with flag football, soccer, and basketball drawing the most players.

Centre College often takes visitors by surprise. Although situated in a quaint,

historic setting, much of the campus has a fresh, modern feel. Students come here

for a well- rounded liberal arts education yet receive plenty of real- world preparation

along the way. “By the time I reached my senior year,” recalls a math major, “I felt

cultivated as a public speaker, a problem solver, and a leader.” With faculty who care

about forming lasting friendships with students and a commitment to providing

hands- on learning opportunities, this undiscovered gem may be worth a look.

Overlaps

Rhodes, Sewanee,

Furman, Wofford,

Davidson, Kenyon,

University

of Kentucky,

Transylvania

If You Apply To ›

Centre: Early decision, early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Please consult Centre’s website for

the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE 133

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

dining for 300 upperclassmen. The Center for Communication and Creative Media,

a 75,000- square- foot facility, offers game and audio labs, studio spaces, and a tradi-

tional and digital photo lab.

Champlain’s distinctive curriculum is built around three legs (“Education in 3- D,”

to use the local lingo). The first leg is professional programs. Students apply to one of

four academic divisions— Stiller School of Business; Communication and Creative

Media (CCM); Education and Human Studies; or

Information Technology and Sciences— and then

select a major in that division. For example, CCM,

the largest division, offers 11 choices, with broad-

cast media production, filmmaking, and profes-

sional writing among them. Students disillusioned

by their initial choices can easily transfer to another major within their division, but

switching to another division is harder. The second leg, the liberal arts component, is

a highly structured set of core courses taught on an interdisciplinary basis by profes-

sors from all departments. “Core classes involve reading and writing and often involve

fun topics such as conspiracy theories or being outside,” says a film major. Students

pursue a series of courses over three years that focus in progressive fashion on the

nature of the self, concepts of a just and sustainable community in the West, and

global themes, such as human rights. Seniors complete a capstone experience that

integrates learning from their professional, liberal arts, and out- of- classroom experi-

ences. The third and final curricular leg is the InSight career and personal finance

program, an array of workshops, company visits, and other activities that teach such

real- world skills as developing a résumé and cover letter, setting a budget, and earning

a good credit score. The school argues that four years of working simultaneously in a

professional field and the liberal arts gives students the broad thinking and learning

skills that will serve them well beyond their first jobs.

Seventy- four percent of classes at Champlain have fewer than 20 students, and

all are taught by professors (who are not awarded tenure) or adjuncts, with no TAs.

“The professors have experience from the industry and it shows during their instruc-

tion,” says a game art and animation major. Computer and digital forensics, graphic

design and visual communication, and game design are highly regarded fields, and

the business school offers seven majors, from accounting to game production man-

agement. Aspiring lawyers can prepare for law school by pursuing Champlain’s

unusual B.A. degree in law. The most popular majors are computer networking and

cybersecurity, game design, computer science and innovation, and game art. Many

students also take minors in areas such as global studies and social justice.

Virtually all students participate in some sort of internship at some point. Study

abroad plays an important role at Champlain, and the college offers free passports to

students who do not already have them. The college maintains international satel-

lite campuses in Dublin and Montreal, a major global center for the game industry,

as well as in Shanghai. There are no honors programs, and most graduates head for

the job market rather than graduate or professional schools.

Twenty- three percent of students are native Vermonters, with the rest hailing

mainly from the East Coast and Midwest. Black students account for 4 percent of the

total, Hispanics/Latinos 7 percent, Asian Americans

4 percent, multiracial students 5 percent, and

international students 1 percent. Largely because

of the nature of the curriculum, men outnumber

women by a ratio of 3 to 2. “Most of the campus is

comprised of geeks and gamers,” says a student. “There are many skiers and snow-

boarders, of course, and a great deal of people who care about the environment or

social issues.” The school awards merit scholarships averaging $18,800.

(continued)

Grad in 6 Years: 65%

Returning Freshmen: 76%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (802) 625- 0201

Email Address: admission @

champlain .edu

Strong Programs:

Computer and Digital

Forensics

Graphic Design and Visual

Communication

Game Design

Business

Law

Computer Networking and

Cybersecurity

Computer Science and

Innovation

Game Programming

“Core classes involve

reading and writing and

often involve fun topics

such as conspiracy

theories or being outside.”

Seniors complete a

capstone experience

that integrates

learning from their

professional, liberal

arts, and out- of-

classroom experiences.

“The professors have

experience from the

industry and it shows

during their instruction.”

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134 CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

“Champlain’s first- year residence halls are renovated Victorian mansions that

have modern technology and safety features with the old charm preserved,” explains

a senior. Sophomores and upperclassmen can choose among well- maintained tradi-

tional dorms, some quite new, that feature tuning and repair facilities for bikes, skis,

and skateboards, or they can live in an off- campus apartment hall or find their own

off- campus digs. Overall, 77 percent of undergrads reside in college- owned housing.

Students take their meals at a single dining hall where the food gets lukewarm

reviews. One student reports, “Our school’s Public Safety department is incredibly

friendly and always shows up quickly (even if you just locked yourself out of your

room).”

Champlain is “not considered a party school,” says a junior. Adds a marketing

major, “Most of the social life is off campus, whether it’s downtown on Church

Street, by the lake, a friend’s apartment, or a concert.” The campus is dry and poli-

cies are enforced; in the absence of fraternities and

sororities, says a sophomore, “hard- core party folks

go to our neighbors, UVM.” The college sponsors

roughly 50 student clubs and organizes a range of

activities on and off campus. A small city of 45,000

residents, Burlington is near the top of everyone’s list

of best college towns. The Church Street pedestrian mall, just below the campus,

offers an array of cafés and shops for all tastes, as well as a vibrant music scene and

abundant nightlife, and there is a park and bike path that runs along the lake’s

waterfront.

No one seems to mind that Champlain has no varsity sports (except for the

eSports team). But it does have a mascot named Chauncey T. Beaver as well as plenty

of intramural options for all skill levels, including soccer, basketball, and dodgeball,

and a rugby club that competes against other schools. Not surprisingly for a school

full of gamers, Humans vs. Zombies and Quadball (formerly known as Quidditch)

are popular. Annual traditions include the Rail Jam skiing and snowboarding com-

petition in the fall and the Spring Meltdown carnival just before final exams. The

end of the year brings the Game Development Senior Show, where graduating

seniors show off their projects to the college community (and company recruiters).

Administrators at Champlain are sensitive about the fact that only 65 percent of

entering students graduate within six years. One contributing factor, students sug-

gest, is the need to plunge immediately into a professional field that may not be a

good fit. Other students point to the heavy workload in some majors and the lack of

cultural diversity as possible factors. Champlain “is heavily steeped in nerd culture,”

says a junior. “Escaping it is difficult on campus.” Administrators are working hard

to mitigate these stressors, emphasizing well- being— including making Wednesdays

free of daytime classes to give students time during the week to “recharge and reju-

venate the mind, body, and spirit”— and bolstering student support services.

For gaming enthusiasts, techies, creatives, and other career- oriented students,

Champlain is a small school with a big vision of how to refashion the relationship

between professional training and the liberal arts. It offers a unique option for stu-

dents who have a strong, focused interest in its professional majors and who are

eager to press “start” on their careers.

Study abroad plays

an important role

at Champlain, and

the college offers

free passports to

students who do not

already have them.

“Champlain’s first- year

residence halls are

renovated Victorian

mansions that have

modern technology.”

A small city of 45,000

residents, Burlington

is near the top of

everyone’s list of

best college towns.

Overlaps

Drexel, Emerson,

Wentworth

Institute of

Technology,

Worcester

Polytechnic, Roger

Williams, University

of Vermont,

Rochester Institute

of Technology,

Southern New

Hampshire

If You Apply To ›

Champlain: Early decision I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supple-

ment. Apply to particular academic division. Some majors require portfolio submission.

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CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY 135

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Chapman sits at the hub of Orange County and a stone’s throw from L.A. Has parlayed

its O.C. location into burgeoning popularity in film, television, and the performing

arts. Those without showbiz aspirations can opt for strong programs in business,

communication studies, or biology. Disneyland is in the neighborhood and is a short

bike or train ride away.

Although best known as a Southern Californian mecca for budding filmmakers to

hone their craft, Chapman University continues to stake its claim as a comprehen-

sive institution that happens to offer one of the nation’s best film programs— rather

than a film school that also happens to offer other majors. Chapman boasts stellar

programs in business and has increased its emphasis on health sciences and technol-

ogy. It also facilitates countless internships to send its students out into the work-

force with real- world experience.

Founded in 1861, Chapman is one of the oldest private universities in California.

Originally called Hesperian College, the school was renamed in 1934 in honor of

C. C. Chapman, an Orange County entrepreneur and benefactor of the school. The

beautiful residential campus, situated on 80 tree- lined acres, features a mixture of

landmark historic buildings and state- of- the- art facilities. It is located in the his-

toric Old Towne district of Orange, near outstanding beaches, Disneyland, and the

world- class cultural offerings of Orange County and Los Angeles. Recent construc-

tion includes the Swenson Hall of Engineering, which opened in 2021 as part of the

Keck Center for Science and Engineering, and the Sandi Simon Center for Dance,

which opened in 2023.

Regardless of major, all students complete a four- part general education pro-

gram: a First- Year Foundations Course taken in the fall; six inquiry categories (natu-

ral science, quantitative reasoning, writing, social sciences, values and ethics, and

artistic studies); a Global Citizen cluster (two

courses in global studies, one in civic issues, and

a language course); and a mini- minor, minor, or

second major. Chapman’s first- year experience program, Fenestra (Latin for

“window”), encourages students to approach their first year as a “window of oppor-

tunity”; the program involves a weeklong orientation and special workshops, field

trips, and social activities held throughout the year.

The most popular majors are business administration, psychology, computer

science, communication studies, and film and television production. Dodge College

of Film and Media Arts is a comprehensive, production- based school that offers

such majors as news/broadcast journalism and documentary, writing for film and

television, public relations and advertising, and creative producing, as well as

internships and other active learning opportunities. Emerging entrepreneurs can

take advantage of a well- stocked portfolio of business programs through the Argyros

School of Business and Economics. The Economic Science Institute allows for

the study of experimental economics under the direction of Nobel laureate

Dr. Vernon Smith and encompasses fields as diverse as finance, engineering, neu-

roscience, computer science, and philosophy, among others. Notable programs in

music, theatre, and dance involve frequent national and international performance

components. Among the sciences, biology and health sciences are solid. The Fowler

School of Engineering offers undergraduate degrees in computer engineering, com-

puter science, data analytics, electrical engineering, and software engineering.

Website: www .chapman .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 9,016

Undergraduates: 7,327

Male/Female: 40/60

Financial Aid: 87%

Pell Grant: 18%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 46%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 13,690

Accepted: 73%

Enrolled: 21%

Grad in 6 Years: 84%

Returning Freshmen: 91%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (714) 997- 6711

Email Address: admit @

chapman .edu

Strong Programs:

Film and Television Production

Writing for Film and Television

Performing Arts

Business Administration

Communication Studies

Biology

Health Sciences

Psychology

“Many of the professors

bring a lot to the table.”

Chapman University

One University Drive, Orange, CA 92866

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136 CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Integrated degree programs allow students to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s in five

years in several disciplines, including pharmaceutical sciences.

“Regardless of the course of study you are taking at Chapman, you are going to

have an in- depth and personalized education,” says a creative producing major.

Forty- six percent of classes have fewer than 20 students. Freshmen are taught by

professors— there are no teaching assistants— and a sophomore says, “Many of the

professors bring a lot to the table, whether it’s experience in the field they’re teach-

ing about, connections with colleagues, teaching styles, or general charisma and

personality,” shares a health sciences major. Students interested in conducting

faculty- mentored research can apply to the SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research

Fellowship) program, which awards up to $4,000 in funding to selected fellows. An

English and sociology major highly recommends the Honors Program, which

allows students to “dive deeply into very niche topics” as well as “build and teach

their own classes to their peers.” Those seeking a global learning experience can

choose from semester- long study abroad programs, in addition to short- term,

faculty- led travel courses and international summer internships; 42 percent of stu-

dents avail themselves of these opportunities. As for career services, a junior says, “I

have had over five internships in two years, and most of that can be attributed to

the responsiveness and knowledge of the Office of Career and Professional

Development.”

“Students are active, social, and friendly,” says a data analytics major. “A major-

ity of the students are really involved in so much outside of just their schooling here,

which builds a great community,” adds a broadcast journalism major. Sixty- nine

percent of Chapman’s largely affluent student

body hail from California, and 3 percent are

international. Black students constitute 2 percent

of the population, Asian Americans 16 percent,

Hispanics/Latinos 18 percent, and multiracial

students 9 percent. Chapman recently opened a Cross- Cultural Center, and a senior

says, “Ethnically and racially, the student body looks much more diverse today than

how it looked my freshman year,” touts a sophomore. Eligible undergraduates receive

merit scholarships worth an average of $20,200, but since Chapman is a Division III

school, there are no athletic scholarships.

Forty- seven percent of Chapman students reside on campus. First- years are

housed in residence halls based on their chosen academic program; one student

explains, “This allows for students to know their peers on day one of classes and

always have a study partner throughout the semester.” Meals at the Randall Dining

Commons are described as tasty and diverse. Campus safety receives positive reviews,

and the CARES (Creating a Rape- Free Environment for Students) student organiza-

tion is active in raising awareness about campus sexual assault.

Twenty- three percent of the men join fraternities, and sororities attract 39 per-

cent of the women; all members of the Greek community are required to perform

community service, and Greek life doesn’t dominate the social scene. A senior raves,

“there are tons of things to do in the area, especially since we have professional

sports teams, concerts, theme parks, and the beaches.” Every year, students flock to

the homecoming celebration’s chili cook- off and fireworks, WinterFest (complete

with fake snow and a visit from Santa), the Spring Sizzle festival, and Midnight

Breakfast during finals week.

The city of Orange (population 140,000) is a college town only in the technical

sense of the term. “It’s actually a very quiet city,” says a junior. The Old Towne dis-

trict is well known as “the Antique Capital of California,” although several trendy

restaurants, brew pubs, and boutiques have opened their doors in the last few years.

When students grow weary of the area, they take advantage of the pristine Southern

Notable programs

in music, theatre,

and dance involve

frequent national

and international

performance

components.

“A majority of the students

are really involved in so

much outside of just their

schooling here.”

First- years are housed

in residence halls

based on their chosen

academic program.

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COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON 137

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

College of Charleston

Charleston, SC 29424

A public school one- third the size of the University of South Carolina that blends

a small- college feel with the advantages of a midsized, urban university. College

of Charleston compares to Elon University or James Madison University. Offers

business, education, engineering, and the liberal arts and sciences. Location a feast

for history and culinary buffs.

Whether sampling the traditional Lowcountry cuisine or delving into the wide

range of courses offered at this strong liberal arts and sciences institution, students at

the College of Charleston know they are getting a solid education based on creative

expression, intellectual freedom, and hands- on learning experiences. Founded in

1770 as Colonial South Carolina’s first college, the College’s original commitment

to the liberal arts and sciences and to the citizens of the region has helped it become

a well- respected institution throughout the Southeast. And the location only adds

to the experience, providing opportunities for research and internships and a robust

social scene.

The 13th oldest college in the country, College of Charleston was founded as a

private college and, after a number of identity changes, became a state university

exactly 200 years later. Located in Charleston’s famous Historic District, the campus

features many of the city’s most venerable build-

ings. More than 80 of its buildings are former

private residences, ranging from the typical

Charleston “single” house to the Victorian, and the clap- clap of horse- drawn car-

riages bearing tourists is a routine sight. The campus is within easy walking distance

of the city’s shopping and restaurant district and offers proximity to beaches.

Cistern Yard, the area in front of Randolph Hall lined with moss- draped live oaks,

is a student gathering point and the site of May graduation ceremonies. The campus

has received countless awards for its design and has been designated a national

arboretum and a National Historic Landmark.

Website: www .cofc .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 9,427

Undergraduates: 9,148

Male/Female: 32/68

Financial Aid: 68%

Pell Grant: 20%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 51%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 22,020

Accepted: 76%

Enrolled: 13%

Grad in 6 Years: 65%

Returning Freshmen: 80%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (843) 953- 5670

Email Address: admissions @

cofc .edu

“Courses are challenging

but always engaging.”

California weather to explore the great outdoors or take trips to Disneyland, L.A.,

or San Diego.

The Chapman Panthers compete in the Division III Southern California

Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Football, baseball, and men’s and women’s

basketball are among the most competitive teams. The Chapman Dance Team has

brought home several national championships in the last decade. Intramurals and

club sports draw a quarter of the student body; intramural basketball and soccer are

the most popular, and the men’s club lacrosse team is nationally competitive.

Students at Chapman are expected not only to hit the books but also to actively

express their creativity through hands- on learning, on- campus involvement, and

forays into the real world. “Chapman is known for the people and the connections

people make,” says a senior.

Overlaps

Loyola Marymount,

Santa Clara,

University of

San Diego, Elon,

Pepperdine,

University of

Southern California,

UCLA, NYU

If You Apply To ›

Chapman: Early decision, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application. Art and

talent- based programs require submission of a creative supplement.

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138 COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The college’s core curriculum is rooted in the liberal arts, sciences, and profes-

sional programs. The focus is on the development of problem- solving and critical-

thinking skills, as well as taking an entrepreneurial approach to addressing global

issues like climate change, social injustice, and economic inequality. Each student

is required to satisfy credits in English, history, mathematics or logic, social sci-

ence, natural sciences, humanities, and foreign language. All new students attend

Convocation, where they are introduced to the college’s academic traditions, and

freshmen from underrepresented groups can participate in several support programs

designed to ensure their successful transition to college. All freshmen take part in

the First- Year Experience and choose between seminar and learning community

options; sample seminars include Charleston Writers, Designing Your Life, and

Gateway to Neuroscience.

Biology, chemistry, and psychology are some of the strongest programs; many

graduates go on to the Medical University of South Carolina, a few blocks down the

street. Marine biology, German, international studies, and arts management are also

strengths. The most popular majors are psychology, business administration, com-

munication, biology, and public health. New majors in software engineering and

sustainability studies have been added. “Courses are challenging but always engag-

ing,” says a senior. Thirty- eight percent of all classes enroll fewer than 20 students,

and while students say the quality of instruction can be hit- or- miss, a communi-

cation major comments, “The majority of my professors have been unforgettable

mentors to me and have played a critical role in my learning.”

About 850 students enroll in the Honors College, where they are given a more

demanding workload, including a culminating Bachelor’s Essay that is undertaken

with the support of a faculty mentor. The Office of Undergraduate Research and

Creative Activities awards competitive grants to fund student/faculty research proj-

ects. Roughly a quarter of undergrads study internationally; the college sponsors

more than 30 faculty- led study abroad programs, as well as upperclassmen spring

break programs. Students may also choose from hundreds of additional options

through preapproved providers. Many performing arts majors take advantage of

internships with Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston’s annual international arts festi-

val. The city’s growing biomedicine, tech, and aerospace industries also provide

opportunities for research and internships.

According to an English major, the College’s student body is “pretty accepting,

artistic, and fun.” Forty- nine percent of students hail from out of state, and another

2 percent from foreign countries. The administration has been pushing to increase

the proportion of students of color; currently,

Black students account for 6 percent of the stu-

dent body, Asian Americans 2 percent, Hispanics/

Latinos 7 percent, and multiracial students

4 percent. Racial tension in the city of Charleston,

known for its history as a major slave- trading

port, has sparked “some protests and disagreements” on campus, says a junior, but

overall, the political climate is left- leaning and usually relatively calm. The Race and

Social Justice Initiative and the Center for the Study of Slavery raise awareness of

racial injustice and the legacies of slavery through research, public events, exhibi-

tions, and other projects. The college offers merit scholarships averaging $13,300

and more than 100 athletic scholarships.

“On- campus housing at the College of Charleston is very nice, with choices

between dormitories, apartments, or historic houses,” says a student. Twenty- eight

percent of students live on campus, and students say more would stay if there were

space to accommodate them. Off- campus housing can get quite expensive, although

the college has acquired multiple housing buildings within walking distance of

(continued)

Strong Programs:

Biology

Chemistry

Psychology

Marine Biology

German

Arts Management

Business Administration

Communication

Each student is

required to satisfy

credits in English,

history, mathematics

or logic, social science,

natural sciences,

humanities, and

foreign language.

“The city is a social

playground for college

students. There are tons of

restaurants and beautiful

architecture to enjoy.”

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UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO 139

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

campus in order to help ease the strain. Dining services provide options for all types

of eaters, including vegetarian, vegan, and kosher fare. “The omelets at Liberty are

what I live for!” cheers a junior. As for security, “Being in the heart of a city can

sometimes be overwhelming, but generally, campus feels safe,” says one student.

Nineteen percent of the men and 17 percent of the women belong to fraternities

and sororities, respectively. A junior says, “Greek groups are the gatekeepers of party

culture at the College.” More than 220 student organizations help provide alterna-

tives, and students enjoy Charleston’s sporting events, concerts, and numerous

festivals. As one student puts it, “The city is a social playground for college students.

There are tons of restaurants, events to attend, and beautiful architecture to

enjoy.” On weekends, students can head to beaches such as Folly Beach, Sullivan’s

Island, and Isle of Palms, which are merely minutes away. For those who don’t mind

a drive, there’s “the Grand Strand,” Myrtle Beach, 90 miles north, Savannah and

Hilton Head to the south, and Atlanta to the west.

The absence of a football team is a common gripe among students, but other

athletic teams are popular, none more so than basketball. The College of Charleston

is a Division I school, and several Cougar teams are competitive in the Colonial

Athletic Association conference, including men’s basketball and men’s and wom-

en’s golf. The sailing team is a top performer nationally. The intramural program

offers eight team sports throughout the year, and basketball and soccer are the most

popular, both in terms of participation and competitive fervor; more than 20 club

sports are also available.

The College of Charleston has become the finest public liberal arts and sciences

institution in South Carolina, propelled by its historic setting, an honors college,

opportunities for internships and study abroad, and a healthy social life. “There’s so

much history here that you can’t help but feel like you’re making some yourself,”

muses an anthropology and biology major.

The Race and Social

Justice Initiative

and the Center for

the Study of Slavery

raise awareness of

racial injustice.

Overlaps

Appalachian State,

James Madison,

University of Mary

Washington, UNC

Wilmington, Elon,

University of South

Carolina, Clemson,

Coastal Carolina

If You Apply To ›

Charleston: Early decision, early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Application

includes optional questions regarding preferred first name, birth sex, and gender identity. Please consult Charleston’s web-

site for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

University of Chicago

Rosenwald Hall 105, 1101 East 58th Street, Chicago, IL 60637

Traditionally known as a haven for true intellectuals who enjoy nothing more than

the chance to debate a fresh idea. The Common Core remains the intellectual heart

of the school, but Chicago has worked hard to shed its reputation as the place

“where fun comes to die.” Recent investments in dormitory life, the arts, and athletic

facilities— coupled with more aggressive recruiting— have helped cement UChicago’s

status alongside the top Ivies and Stanford. Quarter system can be stressful.

The University of Chicago attracts students eager to move beyond the cliquishness

of high school and the superficial trappings of Ivy League résumé building— the

kids more concerned about learning for learning’s sake than about getting a job

after graduation, though they’re certainly capable of the latter. “‘Life of the Mind’

is taken very seriously,” says a student. “The academic atmosphere extends beyond

Website: www .uchicago .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Private

Total Enrollment: 12,426

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140 UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

the classroom, and most people like it that way.” Still, administrators have realized

that in the 21st century, even the best schools cannot survive on intellectual might

alone. To make UChicago more attractive, they’ve broadened the offerings in the

core curriculum, expanded study abroad programs and career advising, and com-

pleted a bevy of new facilities. The result? Applications have doubled in the last

decade and enrollment is surging. Says a freshman, “The fact that college here is a

good time just makes us that much happier.”

The university’s 217- acre, tree- lined campus sits in Hyde Park, an eclectic com-

munity on Chicago’s South Side, surrounded by neighborhoods on three sides and

Lake Michigan on the other. One of 77 city neighborhoods, Hyde Park “is pretty

intellectual,” says one student, noting that “two-

thirds of our faculty live here.” Streets are lined

with brownstones, rowhouses, and townhouses,

giving way to luxury high- rises with beautiful

views as you get closer to the lake; the city’s

Museum of Science and Industry is within spit-

ting distance. The campus itself is self- contained and architecturally magnificent.

The main quads are steel- gray Gothic— gargoyles and all— and other buildings were

The Regenstein Library (known as “the Reg”) is a national treasure, symbolically

located in the heart of the campus. Next to the Reg is the Mansueto Library, a geo-

desic dome.

Founded in 1890 thanks to John D. Rockefeller and Marshall Field largesse,

UChicago has historically drawn praise for its graduate programs, but in subse-

quent years the undergraduate college has flourished, competing successfully with

the likes of Stanford, Harvard, and Princeton. To that end, the university remains

unequivocally committed to the view that a solid foundation in the liberal arts is

the best preparation for future study or work and, moreover, that theory is better

than practice. Thus, music students study musicology, but also learn calculus, along

with everyone else. Regardless of major, 15 to 18 of a student’s 42 courses fall under

general education requirements called the Common Core, which is one of the most

comprehensive sets of distribution requirements anywhere. (The precise number of

courses in the Core depends on how much foreign language instruction a student

needs to reach proficiency.)

Other Core requirements include courses in the sciences and math, humanities,

arts, social sciences, and a sequence of study in a specific civilization. There is a

required writing tutorial as well. “UChicago is an academically difficult school, but

that is why the students love it and choose to

attend,” admits a senior. Adding to the intensity

is the quarter system, pioneered by UChicago,

whereby class material is presented over 10- week

periods with the first term starting in late

September and ending in mid- December. In

practice, this means that students take more classes over four years than they would

on a semester- based system, with virtually uninterrupted work through the year,

punctuated by a long summer vacation and three exam weeks. A senior says, “With

an intense workload, it is important to practice time management in order to suc-

ceed. Once you get into the swing of things, however, everything is manageable.”

Seniors are also encouraged to do final- year projects. Classes are intimate, with

77 percent enrolling fewer than 20 students, and led by brilliant faculty members

who’ve won Nobel Prizes, Guggenheims, and other prestigious awards. “Professors

care so deeply about your growth both as a human being and as an intellectual that

they are constantly seeking to meet to discuss your written work,” raves a junior.

(continued)

Undergraduates: 7,455

Male/Female: 53/47

Financial Aid: 49%

Pell Grant: 14%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 14%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 37,522

Accepted: 5%

Enrolled: 85%

Grad in 6 Years: 96%

Returning Freshmen: 99%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (773) 702- 8650

Email Address:

collegeadmissions @ uchicago

.edu

Strong Programs:

Economics

Environmental and Urban

Studies

Global Studies

Area Studies

Biological Sciences

Mathematics

Public Policy Studies

English

Social Sciences

Physical Sciences

“UChicago is an

academically difficult

school, but that is why the

students love it and choose

to attend.”

Classes are led by

brilliant faculty

members who’ve

won Nobel Prizes,

Guggenheims, and

other prestigious

awards.

“There is a culture of

free speech that enables

a climate of open

conversation that is

refreshing.”

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UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO 141

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The economics department, which has produced numerous Nobel laureates,

is known as a bastion of free market economics and is UChicago’s main academic

claim to fame. Popular majors include economics, biological sciences, mathe-

matics, public policy studies, and English.

Inter disciplinary majors in environmental and

urban studies and global studies are notable.

The university also prides itself on area studies

programs, such as those focusing on East Asia,

South Asia, the Middle East, and the Slavic countries. The Accelerated Medical

Scholars Program allows exceptional undergrads to begin medical school during

their fourth year, and similar joint- degree and professional options allow under-

grads to engage with any of the university’s other graduate and professional

schools. The cross- subject molecular engineering major— the university’s only

undergraduate degree in engineering— focuses on “solving societal problems at

the molecular level”; students delve into such topics as water conservation,

quantum computing, and advances in biological immuno- engineering.

Students enjoy an abundance of research assistantships and opportunities for

publication, even before they graduate— “There is a ridiculous amount!” marvels a

theater and performance studies major. Through the Metcalf Internship Program,

students have access to 3,000 fully funded internships that are offered exclusively to

UChicago students. Established internships are available at the Argonne National

Laboratory and Fermilab, both located in nearby suburbs, and at the UChicago-

affiliated Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. When

Chicago gets too cold and snowy, students may take advantage of more than 60

study abroad programs, which reach most corners of the globe and include study at

the university’s centers in Hong Kong, Beijing, Delhi, and Paris. Financial aid applies

to study abroad programs, and 40 percent of students take part. All students are

assigned both an academic and a career advisor, and UChicago has one of the best

career advising systems of any school, aimed at assuring that its graduating intellec-

tuals can still get a job.

At UChicago, says a junior, “What brings together the student body is a love for

learning and maybe just a bit of geekiness, whether that comes from a love of Plato

or an obsession with big bang theory.” Sixty- eight percent of undergraduates come

from out of state, including many East Coasters with academic parents; another

16 percent are international. Just 6 percent of freshman applicants are accepted

here, in part because the admissions office is

wary of admitting students whom it thinks might

not come. Asian Americans represent 20 percent

of the total, Hispanics/Latinos 16 percent, Black

students 7 percent, and multiracial students

7 percent. Students are quick to give voice to

opinions and political allegiances. “Of course there are hot- button issues, but there

is a culture of free speech that enables a climate of open conversation that is refresh-

ing,” opines a math major. In a sign of UChicago’s educational philosophy that

attracted national attention several years ago, incoming freshmen received a letter

reiterating the university’s commitment to freedom of speech and thought, reject-

ing “safe spaces” for the hypersensitive and cancelations of invitations to controver-

sial speakers.

Admissions at UChicago are need- blind, and the university meets 100 percent

of students’ demonstrated need with financial aid packages that include grants

instead of loans. The Odyssey Scholarship program offers generous financial aid

packages, funding to support internships or study abroad, and other benefits to first-

generation and lower- income students. Socioeconomic diversity is slowly inching

“The academic culture

becomes more and more

collaborative with every

passing year.”

UChicago’s Common

Core is one of the

most comprehensive

sets of distribution

requirements

anywhere.

“Our main [athletic]

nemesis is Harvard, as they

are our main intellectual

and same school- color

rival.”

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142 UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO

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upward. The university has made a major effort in recent years to serve veterans,

investing in dedicated housing facilities, academic advising, and career counseling

for its veteran population.

New incoming students are required to live on campus for the first two years

(transfer students only one year), and the school guarantees housing for four years.

Sixty- one percent of all undergrads live in the dorms, where “students are split into

houses, which serve as smaller, more intimate communities that offer a very home- y

feel,” explains a political science major. All halls are co- ed, though some offer single-

sex floors, and each dorm is different— some house fewer than 100 people in tradi-

tional, shared double rooms without kitchens, while another has 700 beds organized

into colorful suites. The recently built Woodlawn Residential Commons offers a

dining facility and 11 college houses accommodating 1,200 undergrads. It is part of

a long- term campaign to provide more on- campus housing. Still, “Hyde Park has

tons of really cute, cheap apartments,” reports one student, so many of the more

“independent- minded” students move off campus. “Campus safety and sexual

assault is something the school has taken extremely seriously,” says a junior. “They

have security guards on almost every corner, free Lyft rides at night, and are in

constant conversation with the students to meet our needs.”

The UChicago social scene is varied, according to a senior: “There is always some

sort of event going on around campus, be it a theater performance or an a cappella

show.” Indeed, the university’s a cappella scene is one of the tops in the country,

and Chicago offers museums galore; world-

class symphony, opera, and dance; the Second

City comedy improv troupe (invented by

University of Chicago undergrads); professional

spectator sports; and plenty of clubs and bars.

The university provides students with free,

unlimited access to all parts of the city via public transportation, and Arts Pass offers

free or discounted student admission to city art, theater, and cultural events. Cars

are a nice luxury (if you can find a parking place). Road trips are infrequent, but one

popular destination is Ann Arbor, about five hours away, for concerts and more tra-

ditional collegiate fun at the University of Michigan. Greek life has only a small

presence on campus.

Tradition is a hallmark at UChicago. Students have fond memories of freshman

orientation, known as O-Week, an event administrators claim was invented at the

university in 1934. In the winter, students head for the outdoor skating rink on the

Midway, site of the 1893 World’s Fair, for broomball. Students also celebrate the fes-

tival of Kuviasungnerk/Kangeiko (“Kuvia” for short), a week of early morning calis-

thenics and other activities, culminating in a Friday morning yoga session by Lake

Michigan and a Polar Bear Run, where naked or seminaked Maroons dash across the

academic quad. Each spring, students look forward to the four- day Scavenger Hunt

(“Scav”), “a pumped- up version of a regular scavenger hunt, with a list of 300 bizarre

items,” says a sociology major.

UChicago’s Maroons compete in Division III, but, says a senior, “We don’t really

have many athletic rivalries anymore, so our main nemesis is Harvard, as they are

our main intellectual and same school- color rival.” Aside from hitting the gridiron

or the basketball court, “even the varsity athletes are Phi Beta Kappa (that is, very

smart) and involved with university theater,” a junior marvels. In fact, athletes here

have a higher overall GPA than the student body as a whole. Consistently solid pro-

grams include men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s swimming and

diving, women’s basketball and men’s and women’s tennis, cross- country, and track

and field. Intramurals draw heavy participation, with students competing on their

house teams in sports ranging from the traditional (flag football, soccer, and

Established internships

are available at the

Argonne National

Laboratory and

Fermilab, both located

in nearby suburbs.

“There is always some sort

of event going on around

campus, be it a theater

performance or an a

cappella show.”

Naked or seminaked

Maroons dash across

the academic quad

during the annual

Polar Bear Run.

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UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI 143

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University of Cincinnati

P.O. Box 210091, Cincinnati, OH 45221

In most states, UC would be a big enchilada. But with Ohio State two hours up the

road and Miami of Ohio even closer, Cincinnati has to hustle to get its name out

there. A pioneer along with Antioch in co- op education, it offers quality programs in

everything from engineering to art— and a competitive men’s basketball team to boot.

Many first- time visitors to Cincinnati are surprised to find an attractive and very livable

city. As they traverse the city’s hilly roads, they are in for another surprise— its univer-

sity. Not only has the University of Cincinnati made its mark with its extensive research

programs, but its signature cooperative education program, first established in 1906, is

also the largest co- op offering of any public college or university in the country.

The compact campus is a mile uphill from Cincinnati’s downtown area.

Ultramodern buildings rise up next to traditional ivy- covered Georgian halls. A

major $233 million university construction project created a “Main Street” in the

center of campus and consolidated all student activities. Recent additions include a

$120 million facility housing UC’s business programs and a $65 million building for

the College of Allied Health Sciences.

Research has been a longtime forte. Campus scientists have given the world

antiknock gasoline, the electronic organ, antihistamines, and the U.S. Weather

Bureau. But the university is perhaps best known

for cooperative education, which allows students

to earn while they learn. More than 40 programs

across the Cincinnati curriculum offer the popu-

lar five- year professional- practice option, and about 3,500 students participate in

co- ops each year. UC has taken steps to improve the quality of undergraduate

Website: www .uc .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 31,332

Undergraduates: 25,165

Male/Female: 51/49

Financial Aid: 60%

Pell Grant: 17%

Expense: Pub $ $

Student Loans: 57%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 29,024

Accepted: 86%

Enrolled: 25%

Grad in 6 Years: 72%

Returning Freshmen: 86%

Academics:

- -

Social:

% % %

“We are your traditional

hardworking college

students.”

volleyball) to the offbeat (inner- tube water polo, broomball, and archery). Thirty-

eight club sports are available as well.

Although T-shirts lovingly mock the university’s rigor (“Where Fun Comes to

Die”), the University of Chicago has moved well beyond the Spartan attitudes of former

president Robert Maynard Hutchins, who led UChicago from 1929 to 1951 and once

told members of the football team that was about to be abolished, “When I feel like

exercising, I just lie down until the feeling goes away.” A major national force for the

liberal arts, he also once declared, “My idea of education is to unsettle the minds of the

young and inflame their intellects.” UChicago undergraduates today are certainly

more social and more heavily involved in extracurricular activities than their predeces-

sors, but the university still occupies its distinctive historical academic niche. The pre-

vailing culture “becomes more and more collaborative with every passing year,” says

an English major— and the university draws strength from its role as a high- powered

haven for superbright students, including those who lack the polished nonacademic

credentials favored by admissions committees in places like Cambridge and New

Haven. Students at UChicago continue to relish a quirky kind of fun.

Overlaps

Columbia, Harvard,

Yale, Stanford,

University of

Pennsylvania,

Northwestern,

Princeton, Cornell

University

If You Apply To ›

UChicago: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application

with essay supplements.

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144 UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI

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education by strengthening its general education requirements to focus on critical

thinking and expression, by creating more than 100 learning communities for fresh-

men, and by expanding its honors program. Freshmen must take English, math, and

a contemporary issues class, and all students are required to complete a capstone

experience. Other requirements vary by college.

The colleges of engineering; business administration; and design, architecture,

art, and planning (the schools with the most co- op students) are the best bets at UC.

The university’s music conservatory, one of the top programs in the field, also offers

electronic media and broadcasting training. The colleges of nursing and pharmacy

are well known and benefit from UC’s health center and graduate medical school.

The most popular majors fall under the fields of business administration, health pro-

fessions, engineering, and biological sciences. Education students earn two bache-

lor’s degrees: one in education and one in a liberal arts subject. Additional initiatives

include a culinary arts and science degree program offered jointly with Cincinnati

State, and the state’s first baccalaureate program in facilities and hospitality man-

agement. UC also sponsors a language- immersion house, a freestanding residence

where students are required to live, work, study, and play 24/7 in another language.

About a quarter of undergrads choose to study abroad or work in international co-

ops offered in more than 50 countries.

At UC, the academic rigor is largely a function of one’s major; fields such as

engineering and nursing require a substantially larger academic commitment. “I

would say that the most rigorous courses are those that are nontraditional,” offers

one student, citing “study abroad, capstones, projects with corporate partners, and

advanced topics classes.” Some courses end up being quite large (in popular design

courses, two people to a desk is not unusual); 32 percent of all classes have fewer

than 20 students. A third of the faculty members hold outside jobs, bringing fresh,

practical experience to the classroom. “Most of my professors are accessible because

they offer office hours; however, I have run into difficulty from time to time receiv-

ing answers to my emails,” reports one student.

“We are your traditional hardworking college students,” says a sophomore of

UC’s largely homogeneous student body. Eighty- one percent of undergraduates are

native Ohioans, and 5 percent come from abroad. Black students make up a mere

8 percent of the student body, Asian Americans 5 percent, and Hispanic/Latino and

multiracial students each add 4 percent. Diversity, feminist issues, campus construc-

tion, and rising tuition are the hot topics on campus. The school offers merit schol-

arships averaging $6,200 and nearly 250 athletic scholarships.

Twenty- five percent of UC students live in campus- owned housing. Many

upperclassmen consider off- campus living far better than dorm life, and apartments

can usually be found nearby. For meals, “Campus

has three dining facilities, multiple fast food

restaurants in the university center, and a few

cafés located in certain buildings,” explains a

senior. A marketing major adds, “Living in an

urban environment means there are extra safety precautions that keep students safe.

Never have I felt unsafe on campus.”

Merchants have turned the area surrounding UC, called Clifton, into a mini

college town with plenty to do. Although not a major metropolis like Chicago or

Boston, the “Queen City” of Cincinnati (as in “Queen of the West”) does offer an

urban feel. Nine nearby bus lines take undergraduates into the heart of the city in

minutes; there, they find museums, ballet, professional sports teams, parks, rivers,

hills, and as many large and small shops as anyone could want. On- campus activi-

ties include 550 student clubs, with everything from mountaineering to clubs in

various majors. Fraternities and sororities attract just 4 percent of the men and

(continued)

Q of L:

Admissions: (513) 556- 1100

Email Address: admissions @

uc .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Business Administration

Architecture

Art and Design

Music

Nursing

Prepharmacy

Biological Sciences

More than 40

programs across the

Cincinnati curriculum

offer the popular five-

year professional-

practice option.

“There is a party culture

present at the university,

but it is by no means

dominant.”

On- campus activities

include 550 student

clubs, with everything

from mountaineering

to clubs in various

majors.

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Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

4 percent of the women but are still the most active places to party on campus, usu-

ally opening their functions to everyone. “There is a party culture present at the

university, but it is by no means dominant,” says one senior. The university spon-

sors some events, such as WorldFest and Greek Week. Cleveland and Columbus

make for good road trips.

Seventeen Bearcat teams now compete in the Division I Big 12. The men’s bas-

ketball team is highly competitive, as are football, women’s basketball, and women’s

volleyball. Everyone mentions the football rivalry with Miami of Ohio as a game

you won’t want to miss, and the same holds true when the men’s basketball squad

takes on Xavier University. Weekend athletes take advantage of UC’s first- rate rec-

reation center, and more than 50 club sports and 15 intramurals are an option too.

UC offers students a lively social scene, both on campus and minutes away in

downtown Cincinnati. But cooperative education is the name of the game at this

Ohio school, where the co- op program allows students to take their degrees out for

a test drive before graduation and have a head start on their peers after it.

Overlaps

Ohio State, Miami

University (OH),

Ohio University,

Bowling Green

State, Wright State,

Xavier (OH)

If You Apply To ›

UC: Early action, rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Apply to particular program. Please

consult UC’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Claremont Colleges

In 1925, theologian and educator James A. Blaisdell had the vision to create a group of colleges patterned after

Oxford and Cambridge in England— an “Oxford of the Orange Groves,” as he elegantly put it. Nearly a century

later, the five schools that comprise the Claremont Colleges thrive as a consortium of separate and distinct under-

graduate colleges with two adjoining graduate institutions, a theological seminary, and botanical gardens. Like

families, the colleges coexist, interact, and experience their share of both cooperation and tension. Ultimately,

however, the Claremont Colleges consortium forms a mutually beneficial partnership that offers its students the

vast resources and facilities one might only expect to find at a large university.

The colleges are located 35 miles east of Los Angeles on 546 acres in the suburb of Claremont (population

36,000), a peaceful, tree- lined neighborhood at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains. The picture- perfect California

weather has sometimes been marred by smog, courtesy of the neighbors in nearby L.A., but the smog level has

declined dramatically in the past few years.

Of the five undergraduate colleges that make up the Claremont Colleges— Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd,

Pitzer, Pomona, and Scripps— Pomona is the largest, with about 1,700 students. Each school retains its own insti-

tutional identity, with its own faculty, administration, admissions, and curriculum, although the boundaries of

both academic work and extracurricular activities are somewhat flexible. Each of the schools also tends to specialize

in a particular area that complements the offerings of all the others. Claremont McKenna, which caters mainly

to students planning careers in economics, business, law, or government, has 11 research institutes located on

its campus while Harvey Mudd is a liberal arts college specializing in engineering, science, and math. Pitzer, a

classical liberal arts institution and the most socially progressive of the five, excels in environmental and sustain-

ability studies, and at the all- women Scripps, the top majors include the social sciences, biology, and visual and

performing arts. The oldest of the five colleges, Pomona ranks as one of the top liberal arts colleges anywhere and is

strong across the board.

Collectively, the colleges share many services and facilities, including a student newspaper, a biological field sta-

tion, a student health center, auditoriums, a 2,500- seat concert hall, a 350- seat theater, bookstores, a maintenance

CLAREMONT COLLEGES 145

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146 CLAREMONT MCKENNA COLLEGE

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department, a business office, and a shared campus safety force. The Queer Resource Center, housed at Pomona but

serving the whole community, is a model of collaboration between schools, and the EmPOWER Center provides

the community with comprehensive support and educational resources on sexual assault, dating and domestic

violence, and stalking. The Claremont library system makes 2 million volumes available to all students. Faculties

and administrations are free to arrange joint programs or classes between all or just some of the schools. Courses

are open to students from the other colleges (approximately 2,700 courses in all), but each college sets limits on

the number of classes that can be taken elsewhere. Perhaps the best example of academic cooperation is the team-

taught interdisciplinary courses, which are organized by instructors from the different schools and appeal to a mix

of different academic interests.

The Claremont Colleges draw large numbers of students from within California, although their national rep-

utation is growing. These days, about half the students hail from other Western and non- Western states, with a

sizable contingent from the East Coast. The tone at the Claremont Colleges is decidedly intellectual, and graduate

programs in the arts and sciences are more common goals than business or law school. Anyone who is bright and

hardworking can find a niche at one of the five schools.

One student describes the town of Claremont as “a wonderful place if you’re married or about to die.” Indeed,

the quiet local community (“the Village”) has its share of senior citizens, but it also offers a flavor reminiscent of

Ann Arbor (home to the University of Michigan), with quirky boutiques, coffee shops, truly remarkable candy

stores, a Sunday farmers market, and eateries ranging from fine dining to diners and specialty bagel shops. There

are even ice cream shops that freeze your ice cream with liquid nitrogen before your eyes— and it’s all an easy walk

or bike ride from any campus. Students report that the endless list of social activities offered at the colleges makes

up for anything Claremont might lack. For hot times, Hollywood’s glamour and downtown L.A. are within sniff-

ing distance. The availability of shared Zipcars, rideshare services, and a nearby Metro line make these and other

locations easy to access. Nearby mountains and the fabled surfing beaches make this collegiate paradise’s backyard

complete. Mount Baldy ski lifts, for instance, are only 15 miles away, and you’ll reach Laguna Beach before the end

of your favorite album. For spring break, Mexico is cheap and a great change of pace.

On campus, extracurricular life maintains a balance between cooperation and independence. Claremont

McKenna, Harvey Mudd, and Scripps field joint athletic teams, and the men’s teams especially are Division III

powers, due to the exploits of CMC athletes. Pomona and Pitzer also compete together with particular strength

in water polo, track and field, and soccer. The popular Claremont Colleges Ballroom Dance Company has won

multiple national collegiate championships, as has the perennially successful Claremont Colleges Debate Union.

Each of the five colleges has its own dorms, and since off- campus housing is limited in Claremont proper,

the social life of students revolves around their dorms. Large five- school parties are regular Thursday, Friday, and

Saturday night fare. “In my opinion, Mudd’s parties are the best because they always have themes,” says a physics

major. Claremont McKenna is said to have the most raucous party scene, while Pitzer hosts multiple music festivals

throughout the year. There are no fraternities, except for three local ones at Pomona, where joining is far from de

rigueur. All cafeterias are open to all students, and most big events— films, concerts, etc.— are advertised through-

out each campus. Day- to- day social interaction among students at different schools, be it for meals or dates, is not

what it might be. Occasional political squabbles break out between liberal faculty and students at Pitzer and their

conservative counterparts at Claremont McKenna. For the most part, students benefit not only from the nurturing

and support within their own schools, each of which has its own academic or extracurricular emphasis, but also

from the abundant resources that the Claremont Colleges consortium offers as a whole.

Claremont McKenna College

890 Columbia Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711

Watch your back, Pomona— this rising star is no longer content with being a social

sciences specialty school. CMC is half the size of a typical liberal arts college and

smaller than Pomona by about 300 students. Most conservative of Claremont schools.

CMC continues to develop its national and global reputation, and Californians now

make up less than half the student body.

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CLAREMONT MCKENNA COLLEGE 147

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Claremont McKenna College’s special niche in the Claremont College pantheon is

top programs in government, economics, and international relations. In addition,

CMC has 11 research institutes located on campus, which offer undergraduates

ample opportunities to study everything from political demographics to the environ-

ment. The arts and humanities are also available, but Claremont McKenna is better

suited to those with high ambitions in business leadership and public affairs. “CMC

provides students with a pragmatic liberal arts education that will prepare them for

grad school and a career,” a senior says. “It is a great place to spend four years.”

The 69- acre campus is mostly “California modern” in its architecture, with lots of

Spanish tile roofs and picture windows that look out on the San Gabriel Mountains.

Described by one student as “more functional than aesthetic,” the physical layout

fits right in with the school’s practical attitude. Kravis Center is a state- of- the- art

academic center that houses classrooms, seminar rooms, a computer laboratory, and

faculty offices. Roberts Pavilion serves as an athletic, fitness, and events center.

CMC’s extensive general education requirements include two semesters in the

humanities; three in the social sciences; one each in the natural sciences and

mathematics; and a senior thesis. All first- years take a Freshman Writing Seminar

and a Freshman Humanities Seminar. Claremont

McKenna offers top programs in economics and

government, but the international relations,

psychology, and history programs are also con-

sidered strong. A few programs combine these

strengths into interdisciplinary majors, such as the environment, economics, and

politics major. The biology, chemistry, and physics departments are greatly

enhanced through the use of Keck Science Center, an outstanding facility provid-

ing students with hands- on access to a variety of equipment. In addition, the 85-

acre Bernard Biological Field Station is located just north of the CMC campus and

is available to students for field work. Newer majors include public policy and data

science. The college also offers a popular 3– 2 program in economics and engineer-

ing, a four- year B.A./M.A. program, and a 4– 1 M.B.A. program in conjunction with

the Claremont Graduate University.

The academic climate is fairly strenuous at Claremont McKenna, but not over-

whelming. “There are very difficult courses that will push you to the brink of your

comfort zone in every major,” a junior says. Eighty- three percent of classes have fewer

than 20 students (“one of the perks of a small college,” says a neuroscience major), and

professors are praised for their accessibility. “I have met some of the most incredible

teachers at CMC who are both brilliant and devoted to their students,” raves an eco-

nomics major. All freshmen take part in a five- day orientation program that includes a

Welcome Orientation Adventure (WOA!) trip and a reception with the president and

department chairs. Thirty- three percent of Claremont McKenna students take advan-

tage of study abroad programs offered in more than 55 countries, including Australia,

Brazil, Costa Rica, and Japan. Participants in the Washington Semester can intern

with the State Department, the White House, and lobbying groups, and a semester-

long Silicon Valley internship program places liberal arts students in technology firms.

The college provides stipends to low- income and first- generation students in order to

allow them to take unpaid internships.

A senior describes CMC students as “career- oriented, ambitious, and serious

about their classes.” The CMC student body is 40 percent Californian, with many

other domestic students coming from the East Coast, and 18 percent of students are

international. Asian Americans account for 16 percent of the student body,

Hispanics/Latinos 16 percent, Black students 6 percent, and multiracial students

7 percent. Although CMC is the most conservative of the five Claremont schools,

one student notes, “There is a good mix of liberals, conservatives, and libertarians.”

Website: www .cmc .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,380

Undergraduates: 1,377

Male/Female: 49/51

Financial Aid: 48%

Pell Grant: 18%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 32%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 5,709

Accepted: 10%

Enrolled: 54%

Grad in 6 Years: 91%

Returning Freshmen: 96%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (909) 621- 8088

Email Address: admission @

cmc .edu

Strong Programs:

Economics

Government

International Relations

Psychology

History

Environment, Economics, and

Politics

“There are very difficult

courses that will push you

to the brink of your comfort

zone.”

The college sponsors

an outstanding

lecture series at

the Athenaeum on

Monday through

Thursday nights

each week.

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148 CLAREMONT MCKENNA COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The school accepts domestic applicants on a need- blind basis and guarantees to

meet the demonstrated need of all admitted students. It also awards a limited

number of merit scholarships to eligible students.

Eighty- five percent of CMC students live on campus, “because of the social life,”

according to one. All the residence halls are co- ed, and Stark Hall, a substance- free

dorm, gives students more living options. A cluster of on- campus apartments

equipped with kitchen facilities is a popular option for upperclassmen. Dorm food

is said to be quite good, and students can eat in dining halls at any of the other four

colleges, though the best bet may be CMC’s Collins Dining Hall. “They have a large

spread with lots of different options,” says one student, including vegetarian, vegan,

and organic fare. CMC has expanded its staff dedicated to assisting the campus com-

munity with issues related to discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.

Most students agree that the social life at CMC is more than adequate, thanks to

the five- college system. “There are always parties, club events, barbecues, movie

screenings, and other events,” says a junior. Perhaps consistent with its origins in

1946 as an all- male college (it became co- ed in

1976), CMC has a reputation for raucous party-

ing, at least in comparison to its other Claremont

counterparts; CMC is said to have something of

a “bro culture” around drinking— an atmosphere that appeals to some students but

keeps others away. Aside from that party scene, Monte Carlo Night is a favorite

annual bash, and Club Claremont plans on- campus events as well as outings for

everything from surfing and skiing nearby to day trips to Disneyland and L.A.

Ponding, another unusual CMC tradition, involves being thrown into one of the

two campus fountains on one’s birthday. The college sponsors an outstanding lec-

ture series at the Athenaeum (a.k.a. “the Ath”) on Monday through Thursday nights

each week. Before each lecture, students and faculty can enjoy a gourmet dinner

together and engage in intellectual debates. Students also highly recommend

road trips to Joshua Tree, Coachella, San Francisco, and Las Vegas.

Division III athletics are an important part of life at Claremont McKenna, and

the school has an overstuffed trophy case to prove it. The women’s tennis team

brought home the national title in 2022 and 2023. Recent Stag (men’s) and Athena

(women’s) conference champions include cross- country, swimming and diving,

track and field, golf, and volleyball. A third of the students play varsity sports, and

CMC students tend to dominate the teams jointly fielded with Harvey Mudd and

Scripps. Top rivalries include Pomona– Pitzer, both in athletics and academics, one

student claims. Intramural offerings include cornhole, inner tube water polo, pick-

leball, and more.

CMC has embraced its mission to produce great leaders by providing students

with ample opportunities for research and study abroad, as well as top- notch pro-

grams in government and economics. “Leadership pervades almost everything that

goes on here,” says a junior. “Claremont McKenna builds character, fosters a sense

of ambition among its students, and drives them to set their sights high.”

The Keck Science

Center provides

students with hands-

on access to a variety

of equipment.

“There is a good mix of

liberals, conservatives, and

libertarians.”

Overlaps

UC Berkeley,

UCLA, Pomona,

University of

Southern California,

Stanford

If You Apply To ›

Claremont McKenna: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please

consult Claremont McKenna’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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Harvey Mudd College

301 Platt Boulevard, Claremont, CA 91711

Harvey Mudd may rank as the finest institution that few people outside of STEM-

world have ever heard of. Renowned for encouraging women to go into engineering

and other STEM areas, HMC challenges larger neighbor Caltech for sheer brainpower

and tops it in access to outstanding faculty. Only Caltech sends a higher proportion

of its graduates on for Ph.D.s. Offers more exposure to the liberal arts than most

science- and technology- oriented schools, and a tight- knit community.

A top- ranked liberal arts college with a technical bent, Harvey Mudd College, estab-

lished in 1955 and named for a founder, strives to give its students a sense of aca-

demic balance. Although it’s a leading provider of high- quality programs in science

and engineering (Where else can you take an introductory engineering class where

you build your own underwater robot?), it also emphasizes a well- rounded educa-

tion with knowledge in the humanities, social sciences, and arts. “Harvey Mudd

is a nerdy, organic, stressful, and academically engaging college,” says a first- year

student. A senior adds, “I really think the culture and community at Harvey Mudd

is my favorite part about this school.”

HMC’s mid- ’50s vintage campus of cinder- block buildings, in the words of one

student, “looks like an engineering college; it’s very symmetrical and there’s no

romance.” In addition, most buildings have small, square prism bricks, intended

to accentuate architectural lines, that students have dubbed “warts”— not a very

attractive picture. As part of a massive building campaign, however, the college

has added a modern residence hall, the Shanahan Center for Teaching and Learning,

and the $30 million McGregor Computer Science Center, which boasts a cutting-

edge makerspace.

While most STEM- oriented schools tend to have a narrow focus, HMC has come

up with the quaint idea that even scientists and engineers “need to know and appre-

ciate poetry, philosophy, and non- Western thought,” says an administrator. The

Common Core includes coursework in mathematics, computer science, and engi-

neering; physics, chemistry, and biology (each with an associated laboratory); col-

lege writing (taught by faculty from all departments); humanities, social sciences,

and the arts; and an Impact course that explores the intersection of STEM and soci-

ety. Students report that classes are formidable, and the heavy workload is a common

complaint. Concerned that the core curriculum has indeed become too onerous and

even “soul crushing,” the administration has taken steps to relieve student stress

without sacrificing rigor, including reducing the

number of courses students are required to take

in their first four semesters and setting up a mul-

tidisciplinary care team to help students strug-

gling with academic or personal issues. “There is

a huge focus on getting help if you need it,” says

a chemistry major. The faculty has also set a goal for the Common Core of nurturing

“the joy of learning.” Sixty- two percent of classes have fewer than 20 people, and

the absence of graduate programs means that undergraduates get uncommon

amounts of attention, even from top faculty. A physics major says, “Instruction here

is excellent, and professors have a really wonderful open- door policy,” in addition

to regular office hours.

Of the school’s 10 majors, engineering enrolls the most students; computer

science, mathematics, and physics are other top choices. HMC has one of the

Website: www .hmc .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 906

Undergraduates: 906

Male/Female: 51/49

Financial Aid: 68%

Pell Grant: 13%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 48%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 4,440

Accepted: 13%

Enrolled: 40%

Grad in 6 Years: 92%

Returning Freshmen: 97%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (909) 621- 8011

Email Address: admission @

hmc .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Computer Science

Physics

Mathematics

Computer Science and

Mathematics

“Harvey Mudd attracts

people who have a lot of

passion for technical things,

are overachievers, and like

to have fun with that.”

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150 HARVEY MUDD COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

nation’s best computer science programs and an award- winning math department,

and a combined major in computer science and mathematics is also very popular.

Students rave about the Clinic Program, which plops real- life math, science, and

engineering tasks (sponsored by major corporations and government agencies) into

the laps of students. Recent sponsors have included NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory,

Google, Microsoft, and Toyota. All students must either participate in the Clinic

Program or complete original thesis- driven research in order to graduate. About 200

students stay on campus in the summer for 10- week research experiences, and a

sophomore says, “In research positions, students are working one- on- one with the

professors— they aren’t washing beakers.” Twenty- two percent of students pack up

their laptops for study abroad programs in their choice of more than 20 countries,

usually during their junior year.

“To the surprise of no one, Harvey Mudd attracts ‘nerds,’ but more specifically,

people who have a lot of passion for technical things, are overachievers, and like to

have fun with that,” explains a physics major. For a technically oriented school,

Mudd boasts a relatively high proportion of female students, at 50 percent, and it is

also one of the few colleges strong in engineering and science that has a female pres-

ident. Forty- seven percent of the students are homegrown Californians, and 9 per-

cent are international. Black students represent 6 percent of the student body,

Hispanics/Latinos 21 percent, Asian Americans

22 percent, and multiracial students 11 percent.

A senior notes that while students are often too

“wrapped up in schoolwork” to get involved in

social and political issues, student groups like

FEM Union (Female Empowerment at Mudd)

and BLAM (Black Lives and Allies at Mudd) “have created spaces for discussions

about issues of diversity and privilege.” Merit scholarships averaging $14,100 help

some with the hefty tuition bill, but as a Division III college, Mudd offers no athletic

scholarships. It does, however, honor policies of need- blind admissions and cover-

ing 100 percent of students’ demonstrated need with its financial aid packages.

Ninety- eight percent of undergrads live on campus, and students speak of a

strong “dorm culture” on campus. “Each dorm has a proctor (think: the ‘mom’ or

‘dad’ of the dorm, usually a senior) as well as several mentors (the ‘older siblings’

of the dorm, who are mostly there for freshmen),” explains a computer science

major. “The proctor- mentor team helps keep the dorm community strong and

safe.” Mudd’s dining options are said to be satisfying, and students appreciate their

access to dining facilities at the other Claremont Colleges, which vastly expands

their options.

Despite their heavy workload, most HMC students find abundant social outlets,

even if it’s just joining the parade of unicycles that has overrun the campus— not to

mention skateboards, longboards, scooters, and freeline skates. Dorms host parties

almost every weekend, a favorite being the Wild Wild West party, “where we fill a

dorm courtyard with peanut shells and get a mechanical bull,” says a physics major.

Students describe the party scene as a pressure- free one where classmates look out

for each other. While students do frequent the other Claremont campuses to social-

ize, it’s Mudd’s many traditions that really get them going. When finals roll around

each semester, Noisy Minutes provide breaks from long hours of studying with loud

music, snacks, and activities like a bouncy ball drop, non- Newtonian fluid racing,

and battle tie- dye. Engineering pranks are popular but must be reversible within

24 hours, as established by the honor code. “Pranking the president’s house is one

of the first things you do as a first- year student at Harvey Mudd!” enthuses a senior.

Mudd fields varsity sports teams together with Claremont McKenna and

Scripps, and the teams do extremely well. Women’s tennis (Division III national

“In research positions,

students are working

one- on- one with the

professors— they aren’t

washing beakers.”

HMC has one of the

nation’s best computer

science programs and

an award- winning

math department.

About 200 students

stay on campus in the

summer for 10- week

research experiences.

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PITZER COLLEGE 151

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

champions in 2022 and 2023), women’s volleyball and golf, and men’s and wom-

en’s cross- country, swimming and diving, and track and field are some of the stron-

gest teams. Intramurals, also in conjunction with Claremont McKenna and Scripps,

are even more popular. King among these is inner- tube water polo, which draws

huge cheering crowds and, most importantly, removes the most difficult aspect of

the sport— treading water.

HMC is right on the heels of Caltech as the best technically oriented school in

the West. The college offers a gem of a technical education blended with a worth-

while amount of humanities and social sciences, and the administration seems seri-

ous about addressing the common student refrain that the heavy workload comes at

the expense of time to reflect on what they are learning. HMC offers a welcoming

attitude toward women and other groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM

fields. As one student asserts, “Mudd is the college for students to be challenged like

they never have been before and have the support to go through it.”

Overlaps

MIT, Olin College

of Engineering,

Caltech, Stanford,

Carnegie Mellon,

UC Berkeley,

UCLA, Harvard

If You Apply To ›

Harvey Mudd: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Please consult Harvey Mudd’s

website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Pitzer College

1050 North Mills Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711

Offers a haven for the otherwise- minded without the hard edge of nonconformity at

places like Bard and Evergreen. Traditional strengths lie in the social and behavioral

sciences, including innovative options such as secular studies. Students play a role

in college governance. Far more selective than it was 15 years ago. A national leader

in turning out Fulbright scholars.

As the most socially aware of the Claremont Colleges, Pitzer College offers students

a creative milieu, abundant opportunities for intellectual exploration, and a sense

of fierce individualism. Founded in 1963 and named for a benefactor, this small

liberal arts and sciences school has changed with the times but continues to empha-

size progressive thought, social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and an

open social attitude. In the last 25 years, Pitzer students and alumni have been

awarded more than 250 Fulbright fellowships, and the school continues to attract

top talent from around the world.

Even Pitzer’s campus is, well, different. The classroom buildings are modernistic

octagons, and the grass- covered “mounds” that distinguish the grounds “are perfect

for sunbathing and Frisbee,” says one student, and for lounging in Adirondack

chairs beneath the palm trees. Drought- tolerant

landscaping pervades the campus, and there is

an organic garden. One interesting campus curi-

osity is the Grove House, a California craftsman-

style house students saved from the wrecking ball decades ago and moved to campus.

It houses a dining room, study areas, and art exhibits. Additional facilities include

eight LEED- certified residence halls, Benson Auditorium, and the Gold Student

Health and Wellness Center.

In keeping with Pitzer’s philosophy of student autonomy, each student has the

Website: www .pitzer .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,178

Undergraduates: 1,178

Male/Female: 40/58

Financial Aid: 36%

Pell Grant: 10%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 36%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 3,500

Accepted: 18%

Enrolled: 48%

Grad in 6 Years: 88%

Returning Freshmen: 89%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

“Pitzer people are genuinely

socially conscious and

academically adventurous.”

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152 PITZER COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

maximum freedom to choose which classes to take. Instead of traditional academic

departments, Pitzer has “field groups,” which, as a political studies and Spanish

double major explains, “allow for students to major in one subject area, yet receive

a holistic education.” All students take a sequence of courses on social justice and

intercultural exploration, and a lively first- year seminar program sharpens students’

learning skills, especially writing. Students select from 37 majors, and they’re also

encouraged to design their own. Almost anything in the social and behavioral

sciences is a sure bet, especially psychology. Environmental analysis, econom-

ics, political studies, media studies, biology, and English and world literature are

other strong and popular programs. Pitzer is the first college in the country to offer

a program in secular studies, with courses such as God, Darwin, and Design in

America. Most courses in Pitzer’s weaker areas can be picked up at one of the other

Claremont schools; on average, Pitzer students take 30 percent of their courses at

the other colleges.

The academic climate is “relaxed, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and very

discussion- based,” according to a sociology major. Class size is generally small,

with 74 percent of classes enrolling fewer than 20 students, which promotes close

interaction between students and faculty. “The professors I have had are very

down- to- earth and incredibly knowledgeable in their fields,” says a sociology and

gender/feminist studies major. Students play a large role in Pitzer’s community

government and sit on all policy committees, including those on curriculum and

faculty promotion. The environment is a big focus here, and the college boasts the

Robert Redford Conservancy for Southern California Sustainability. The Firestone

Center for Restoration Ecology in Costa Rica is home to programs in science, lan-

guage, and international studies and provides opportunities for research. Pitzer

also runs its own study abroad programs in Brazil, Ecuador, Italy, Nepal, Vietnam,

and Southern Africa and offers students access to 48 international and five domes-

tic exchange programs; in all, 54 percent of Pitzer students go abroad. Forty- six

percent conduct undergraduate research.

Individualism is a prized characteristic among Pitzer students, but one junior

says the oft- bandied “hippie” label is unfair: “Pitzer people are genuinely socially

conscious and academically adventurous but do go on to good jobs.” Thirty- six per-

cent of students are from California, and 7 percent are from foreign nations. Many

come from wealthy backgrounds. Black students

represent 5 percent of the student body,

Hispanics/Latinos 13 percent, Asian Americans

12 percent, and multiracial students 10 percent.

Students are heavily involved in volunteer work

and cite “racism on campus, labor rights, immigration reform, environmental issues,

and police brutality” as hot- button social and political issues. The school is commit-

ted to meeting 100 percent of enrolled students’ demonstrated need, but it is not

need- blind in its admissions. A limited number of merit scholarships are awarded to

top achievers.

Ninety- seven percent of students live in campus housing, and many find them-

selves in the newer, environmentally friendly dorms; the remainder hang their hats

in “old but spacious” rooms. Boarders can choose from a variety of meal plans, and

the food gets rave reviews, especially the fresh salad, sandwich, and fruit juice bars

in the main dining hall. “The food is awesome: locally sourced, excellent variety,

easy to be vegetarian,” says a senior. Students say the Pitzer Advocates for Survivors

of Sexual Assault student group has been a helpful campus resource.

As for the social scene, “Most students stay on campus to attend events or go to

parties,” says a senior. Pitzer has no Greek organizations, nor does it want any, and

social life tends to be fairly low- key. Kohoutek, an alternative music festival, is the big

(continued)

Admissions: (909) 621- 8129

Email Address: admission @

pitzer .edu

Strong Programs:

Psychology

Environmental Analysis

Economics

Political Studies

Media Studies

Biology

English and World Literature

Secular Studies

“The professors I have had

are very down-to-earth and

incredibly knowledgeable

in their fields.”

In the last 25 years,

Pitzer students

and alumni have

been awarded more

than 250 Fulbright

fellowships.

Pitzer is the first

college in the country

to offer a program

in secular studies.

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POMONA COLLEGE 153

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

annual event, featuring bands, food, and a “whole week of hoopla”; there is a rocka-

billy festival as well. “There is very heavy alcohol and weed usage on campus,” says a

junior. All parties that serve alcohol must be registered. As much as students enjoy

the campus scene, some warn that without a car, things can get claustrophobic.

The Pomona– Pitzer football team has had winning seasons, and the school

fields a variety of competitive Sagehens teams within the Southern California

Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Men’s and

women’s water polo and men’s cross- country

have won national championships recently.

Women’s lacrosse and golf and men’s basket-

ball and swim teams also do well. Recreational

sports thrive, with more than 27 club sports, about a dozen intramurals, and a

hugely popular annual Humans vs. Zombies tag game that draws 500 participants

across campus.

Pitzer College attracts open- minded students looking for the freedom to go their

own ways. “Pitzer people are really caring and often fight for what they believe in.

It is a really loving place,” muses one student, “a place that values the silly and the

weird parts of yourself.”

“The food is awesome:

locally sourced, excellent

variety, easy to be

vegetarian.”

Overlaps

Macalester,

Grinnell, Franklin

& Marshall,

Occidental,

Dickinson, Pomona,

Scripps, Colorado

College, UC

Berkeley, Oberlin

If You Apply To ›

Pitzer: Early decision I, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: not considered. Accepts the Common Application. Application

includes optional fields for gender identity and gender pronouns.

Pomona College

333 North College Way, Claremont, CA 91711

The finest liberal arts college in the West, and one of the few that Ivy- oriented

Easterners will travel across the country to attend. Offers twice the resources

of stand- alone competitors with access to the other Claremonts. A haven for the

otherwise- minded, though not to the same extent as nonconformist neighbor Pitzer.

Strong across the academic spectrum.

Pomona College, located just 35 miles east of the glitz and glamour of Hollywood,

is the undisputed star of the Claremont Colleges and one of the top small liberal

arts colleges anywhere. This small, elite institution is the top liberal arts college

in the West. But the school’s prestigious reputation doesn’t go to the heads of

Pomona’s friendly students. “Students here are very open about different types of

people— Pomona prides itself on its diverse community,” chirps one Sagehen (the

school’s mascot).

The architecture is variously described as Spanish Mediterranean, pseudo- Italian,

or, as a sophomore puts it, “a perfect mix of Northeastern Ivy and Southern California

modern.” One certainly notices more than one stucco building topped with a red

tile roof on campus, as well as eucalyptus trees,

canyon live oaks, and an occasional “secretive

courtyard lined with flowers.” The numerous

open courtyards and gardens are popular study spots. By virtue of its location and

beauty, Pomona’s campus has served as the quintessential collegiate milieu in vari-

ous Hollywood movies. Recent campus projects include Andrew Science Hall, which

Website: www .pomona .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,774

Undergraduates: 1,774

Male/Female: 45/55

Financial Aid: 56%

Pell Grant: 19%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 26%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 12,121

Accepted: 7%

Enrolled: 50%

Grad in 6 Years: 93%

“Pomona prides itself on its

diverse community.”

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154 POMONA COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

features a host of cutting- edge spaces and equipment, including a digital planetar-

ium and electron microscope, and the Pomona College Museum of Art.

Pomona was founded in 1887 by Congregationalists who wanted to import

“New England– type” education to Southern California. In order to graduate, stu-

dents must take at least one course in each of six Breadth of Study areas: criticism,

analysis, and contextual study of works of the human imagination; social institu-

tions and human behavior; history, values, ethics, and cultural studies; physical and

biological sciences; mathematical and formal reasoning; and creation and perfor-

mance of works of art and literature. The required Critical Inquiry seminar empha-

sizes thoughtful reading, logical reasoning, and graceful writing; students choose

from more than two dozen offerings, with subjects such as Pomona Goes Green and

Molecules and the Mind. Students must also complete a senior exercise in their final

year. A five- day freshman orientation program divides the new arrivals into groups

of six to 12 students headed by a sophomore. “We provide a great deal of support

in acclimating students to a college environment,” says a senior. Economics, math-

ematics, computer science, neuroscience, and public policy analysis are the most

popular majors; international relations is well regarded.

“Although classes can be difficult, students help each other out, and the class-

room environment is an enjoyable one,” offers one economics major. Students

often form study groups in an effort to help one another through the demanding

curriculum. One undergrad estimates the average student spends 20 to 30 hours a

week studying outside the classroom. Classes are small— 73 percent have fewer than

20 students— and the faculty makes a point of being accessible. An ever- popular

take- a- professor- to- lunch program gives students free meals when they arrive with

a faculty member in tow. Better still, “We do not have graduate students or TAs

teaching class,” says a senior.

Educational enrichment opportunities abound at Pomona. Students can spend

a semester at Colby or Swarthmore, pursue a 3– 2 engineering plan with the California

Institute of Technology or Dartmouth College, or spend a semester in Washington,

D.C., working for a congressperson. Half of the students take advantage of 60 study

abroad programs offered in 35 countries. Fifty- three percent conduct research men-

tored by a faculty member, and the Summer Undergraduate Research Program pro-

vides funding to more than 200 students to pursue such opportunities each summer.

Pomona students “tend to be high- achieving, confident, verbal students with a

fairly liberal political ideology,” says a senior. “Students are laid- back in a very

Southern California kind of way,” adds another. Twenty- seven percent are

Californians, and a growing number venture

from the East Coast; 12 percent come from

abroad. Ten percent are Black, 16 percent are

Hispanic/Latino, 18 percent are Asian American,

and 8 percent are multiracial. There is a healthy mix of liberals and conservatives on

campus, though the leftists, especially the feminist wing, are much more vocal. The

student government is active, and the administration is credited with respecting

students’ opinions. One interesting way students voice their concerns is by painting

the Walker Wall. Anyone is allowed to paint any message they want on the wall, and

the school will even provide groups with the paint. Pomona is need- blind in admis-

sions and meets the full demonstrated financial need of all those who attend. There

are a few merit scholarships averaging $15,100 but no athletic awards, and the col-

lege has replaced loans with grants in an effort to reduce the debt burden for fami-

lies. The college also participates in the QuestBridge and Posse programs.

Virtually all Pomona students live on campus all four years. The dorms are

co- ed, student- governed, and divided into two distinct groups. Those on South

campus are family- like and fairly quiet, offer spacious rooms, and house freshmen

(continued)

Returning Freshmen: 96%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (909) 621- 8134

Email Address: admissions @

pomona .edu

Strong Programs:

Economics

Mathematics

Computer Science

Neuroscience

Public Policy Analysis

International Relations

By virtue of its

location and beauty,

Pomona’s campus

has served as the

quintessential

collegiate milieu in

various Hollywood

movies.

“Although classes can be

difficult, students help each

other out.”

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Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and sophomores, while those on the North end have smaller rooms with a live-

lier social scene and house juniors and seniors. “Pomona’s dorms are like palaces,”

says a student. The two newest residence halls, Dialynas and Sontag, are LEED

Platinum– certified and feature suite- style apartments for upperclassmen. Oldenborg

Center is a language dorm with wings for speakers of Mandarin Chinese, French,

German, Japanese, Spanish, and Russian, and Pomona also has established language

tables at lunch. Boarders must buy at least partial meal plans. The food is good,

with seafood certified by the Marine Stewardship Council, humanely raised beef and

cage- free eggs, and ice cream for dessert every day. Students generally feel safe on

campus. “The worst that usually happens are bike thefts,” says a junior.

Social life begins in the dorms, where study breaks, barbecues, and parties are

organized. There are movies several nights a week, and students also enjoy just tossing

a Frisbee on the lawn. One student wanted to be sure that incoming freshmen and

transfers knew of the Coop’s (student union) “best milkshakes west of the Mississippi,”

pool tables, and large- screen TV and gaming system. Students often spend Friday

afternoons relaxing with friends over a brew at the Greek Theater. Pomona is unique

among the Claremont Colleges in that it has three nonnational fraternities (two co-

ed; there are no sororities). As for booze, “I haven’t noticed any pressure to drink

here,” reports one student, but “alcohol is definitely present in the social scene.”

“I appreciate the diversity and depth that the five- college community brings to

the social life,” says a student. “You are guaranteed to meet new and interesting

people whenever you step off campus.” Five-

college parties happen nearly every weekend.

During midterms and finals, however, the campus

is a “social ghost town.” Harwood dorm throws

the five- college costume party every Halloween. Freshman orientation gets interest-

ing too. “First- years have to run through the gates of Pomona with blue and white

carnations while upperclassmen throw water balloons and shoot water at them,” says

a student. It helps to have a set of wheels here, although Zipcar and rideshare services

are readily available. Every February or March, hundreds of students spend the morn-

ing at a nearby ski resort, then head to a local beach to swim, and end the day with

an oceanside cookout.

There once was a time when the Pomona Sagehens were an athletic power-

house; the football team even knocked off mighty USC on Thanksgiving Day back

in 1899. In the last few years, the men’s and women’s water polo and men’s cross-

country teams have brought home national titles. Intense rivalry exists between

the Claremont Colleges; basketball games between Pomona– Pitzer and CMS

(Claremont– Mudd– Scripps) are “particularly heated.” Pomona– Pitzer enjoys a

lively rivalry with Occidental College as well. Intramurals, including hotly con-

tested inner- tube water polo matches, attract many participants, and the Outdoor

Education Center facilitates numerous outdoor adventures.

“Pomona offers a unique and desirable juxtaposition of rigorous academics

and a comfortable social atmosphere,” says a student. The strongest link in an

extremely attractive chain, Pomona continues to symbolize the rising status of the

Claremont Colleges in the world of higher education. There are few regrets about

coming to Pomona. Says a senior, “We’re in California. The sun is always shining.

What’s the problem?”

The two newest

residence halls,

Dialynas and

Sontag, are LEED

Platinum– certified

and feature suite-

style apartments for

upperclassmen.

“We’re in California. The sun

is always shining. What’s

the problem?”

The required Critical

Inquiry seminar

emphasizes thoughtful

reading, logical

reasoning, and

graceful writing.

Overlaps

Brown, Stanford,

UC Berkeley,

Williams, Yale,

Pitzer, Harvard,

Dartmouth

If You Apply To ›

Pomona: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult

Pomona’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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156 SCRIPPS COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Scripps is easily the premier women’s college on the West Coast, offering a

commitment to women’s education while interacting with co- ed institutions that are

literally next door. Boasts strengths in social sciences, biological sciences, and the

arts. Innovative Core Curriculum takes an interdisciplinary approach to learning.

Scripps College offers the best of both worlds— a close- knit women’s college, where tra-

ditions include weekly tea and fresh- baked cookies, and the diversity of a major research

institution, thanks to its membership in the Claremont Colleges. Founded in 1926 by

newspaper publisher Ellen Browning Scripps, the college continues to pursue her vision

through its mission: “To educate women by developing their intellects and talents

through active participation in a community of scholars.” Students tend to be outgo-

ing, articulate, and serious about their studies, though they still know how to have fun.

Scripps’s scenic 32- acre campus, listed on the National Register of Historic

Places, offers a tranquil, safe, and comfortable environment. The architecture is

Spanish and Mediterranean, with tiled roofs and

elegant landscaping. A performing arts center pro-

vides permanent space for the Claremont Concert

Orchestra and Concert Choir. In addition to a 700-

seat theater, the center offers a music library,

recital hall, practice rooms, faculty offices, and

classrooms. The Lincoln Ceramic Art Building offers more than 5,000 square feet of

work area and kiln yards.

The required Core Curriculum in Interdisciplinary Humanities is a sequence of three

courses focusing on ideas about the world and the methods used to generate them. In

addition to Core, everyone takes courses in fine arts, letters, natural sciences, and social

sciences— one of these classes must focus on gender and women’s studies and one must

cover race and ethnic studies. All students also complete a senior thesis or project.

Popular and well- regarded majors at Scripps include biology/life sciences, social

sciences, psychology, environmental analysis, media studies, English, and visual

and performing arts, especially studio art and music. The Williamson Gallery offers a

state- of- the- art studio and freestanding museum- quality gallery for aspiring painters

and sculptors. Premeds benefit from the Keck Science Department, a joint program

for students at Scripps, Claremont McKenna, and Pitzer. Programs in area and ethnic

studies, such as Middle East and North Africa studies and Chicanx/Latinx studies, are

strong, and the feminist, gender, and sexuality studies department is also popular.

The Scripps Humanities Institute offers seminars and lectures open to the general

public, along with fellowships for juniors; recently, the institute explored immigra-

tion policy and nationalism in the U.S. and abroad. The Scripps Presents event series

also brings prominent writers, performers, visual artists, and activists to campus for

public lectures as well as student- only discussions and workshops.

The academic experience at Scripps emphasizes cooperation. “Scripps is a very

supportive community,” a junior says. “It is a place where professors encourage you

to work in groups because more brains [are] always better.” Seventy- six percent of

classes have fewer than 20 students. “My professors are always up for a discussion,

always willing to answer questions (even difficult ones), and always up to chat about

how their day is going,” says one student. When they’re ready to branch out, typ-

ically in the junior year, more than 60 percent of Scripps students study abroad,

choosing from more than 115 program options in 47 countries.

Website: www .scrippscollege

.edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,071

Undergraduates: 1,071

Male/Female: 0/100

Financial Aid: 72%

Pell Grant: 9%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 28%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 3,099

Accepted: 28%

Enrolled: 30%

Grad in 6 Years: 84%

Returning Freshmen: 91%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (909) 621- 8149

Email Address: admission @

scrippscollege .edu

Strong Programs:

Biology/Life Sciences

Social Sciences

Psychology

Environmental Analysis

Media Studies

English

Visual and Performing Arts

Area and Ethnic Studies

“[Scripps] is a place where

professors encourage

you to work in groups

because more brains

[are] always better.”

Scripps College

1030 Columbia Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711

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SCRIPPS COLLEGE 157

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Forty- three percent of Scripps undergraduates are from California, and 4 per-

cent come from other countries. Black students account for 4 percent of the student

body, Hispanics/Latinas 13 percent, Asian Americans 13 percent, and multiracial

students 11 percent. “The students here are diligent, thoughtful, and really down- to-

earth,” observes one politics major. “They are usually privileged and have had the

opportunity to have really impressive experiences.” Just 9 percent of incoming

first- year students are Pell- eligible. Student organizations supporting Jewish, Asian

American, Black, Latina, international, and LGBTQ students are available. Scripps

Communities of Resources and Empowerment provides support and funding to stu-

dent organizations that promote inclusion and social justice. Scripps meets 100 per-

cent of admitted students’ demonstrated financial need and has made more grant

money available for students with the most need. The college also awards merit

scholarships averaging $17,200 to top achievers but no athletic scholarships.

Virtually all of Scripps students live in one of the 14 “spectacular” residence halls,

where options include singles, suites, and apartment- style living arrangements. A

student says, “The dorms are gorgeous. They are

well maintained and have lots of charm with

French doors, balconies, or the occasional fire-

place.” First- years live in the same halls as sopho-

mores, juniors, and seniors. The dining hall

garners rave reviews as well: “The salad bar is

gourmet, the bread comes from a local bakery, and the pizza is made in a wood- fired

brick oven,” cheers a bioethics major. “Don’t get me started about the hot cookies!”

Social life at Scripps centers on the residence halls, which take turns throw-

ing parties. “Our social life is very much based on campus,” explains a chemistry

major. “With five undergraduate colleges literally across the street from each other,

it is challenging not to have something to do— from movie screenings, art exhibits,

concerts, special events like a carnival or the International Festival, and parties.”

Alcohol doesn’t play a major role in Scripps social life, but the school does have a

medical amnesty policy for underage students in need of emergency medical assis-

tance. Traditions are important here, including the Matriculation Ceremony at the

start of each year and the signing of Graffiti Wall by each class before graduation. For

students with cars, popular road trips include Pasadena, Mount Baldy, San Diego,

and even Las Vegas and Mexico; students without wheels can hop on the Metrolink

commuter train to downtown Los Angeles.

Athletic rivalries aren’t the focus here, but Scripps does field joint teams with

Claremont McKenna and Harvey Mudd, and when those teams face off against

Pomona and Pitzer, students pay attention. All of the Stag (men’s) and Athena

(women’s) teams compete in Division III, and the women’s volleyball, tennis (2022

and 2023 Division III champs), and cross- country teams are especially strong.

Intramural and club sports are also played jointly, and popular options include

inner- tube water polo, soccer, flag football, and volleyball.

With a winning combination of outstanding academics and personal attention,

not to mention a cooperative, noncompetitive feel, Scripps offers the best of both

worlds. Scripps students want to achieve great things, but not if that requires step-

ping on their classmates’ toes. And just beyond campus, the other Claremont

Colleges beckon, with parties, student clubs, intramural sports, and cross- registration

privileges for a comprehensive college experience.

“It is challenging not to

have something to do—

from movie screenings,

art exhibits, concerts,

and parties.”

One core class must

focus on gender and

women’s studies and

one must cover race

and ethnic studies.

Scripps fields joint

athletic teams with

Claremont McKenna

and Harvey Mudd.

Overlaps

Pomona, UC

Berkeley, UCLA,

University of

Southern California,

Wellesley

If You Apply To ›

Scripps: Early decision I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

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158 CLARK UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Clark has a distinguished history that dates to the late 19th century, and had it been

established an hour to the east, it probably would have become a household name.

Worcester is no Boston, but Clarkies bring a sense of mission and partnership to their

relationship with this historic industrial town. Clark is liberal, tolerant, and world-

renowned in psychology, geography, and game design. Students pride themselves

on being unique independent thinkers.

Founded in 1887 as an all- graduate school on a German model, excelling in the

social sciences, Clark University today welcomes undergraduates of all backgrounds

and interests with small classes and no shortage of faculty attention. Students’ four

years at Clark are designed to prepare them for success after college by combining a

liberal arts curriculum with “intensive world, workplace, and personal experiences.”

As a junior explains, Clark’s experiential learning approach “serves to push students

to bring their college education into the real world.”

Clark’s compact, 50- acre campus has “enough ivy, tall maples, and collegiate

brick buildings to make a traditionalist happy,” even though it’s located in the rather

gritty Main South section of Worcester. Buildings range from remodeled Victorian-

era residences— former homes of prosperous merchants— to the award- winning

Robert Hutchings Goddard Library. Careful restoration has brought a renewed sense

of history to the area. Clark is the only American university where pioneering psy-

choanalyst Sigmund Freud lectured, and his statue adorns the center of campus.

The new 70,000- square- foot Center for Media Arts, Computing, and Design hosts

classrooms, a multimedia gallery, virtual reality and robotics labs, a data science lab,

and a video game library.

While Clark now serves primarily undergraduates, its history of graduate educa-

tion is evident in its classrooms. Most courses are seminars and 60 percent have

fewer than 20 students. First- Year Intensives, required of all students, are limited to

a small number of students (usually no more than

16) to help introduce them to the intellectual, social,

and emotional growth they will experience in col-

lege. In most cases, the faculty member teaching the

course acts as an academic advisor until students

declare a major. “The faculty are dynamic, often

younger and earlier in their careers; many come from the professional world in addi-

tion to pure academia,” shares a geography major.

Clark’s Program of Liberal Studies promotes the habits, skills, and perspectives

essential to lifelong learning. In addition to fulfilling requirements for their major,

each student must complete eight courses: one in verbal expression, one in formal

analysis, and six in perspectives— aesthetic, global comparative, historical, language,

scientific, and values. One class must also satisfy a diversity and inclusion require-

ment. Many of Clark’s course offerings, such as Problems of Practice courses, are

practice- based, incorporating hands- on experiences outside the classroom. Before

graduating, all students must complete a culminating capstone demonstrating

the knowledge and capabilities they have honed during their four years.

Clark’s historically strong psychology and geography departments continue

to burnish their national reputations. Clark is the birthplace of the American

Psychological Association and the concept of adolescence as being distinct from

childhood. International development and social change is another traditional

Website: www .clarku .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 3,528

Undergraduates: 2,350

Male/Female: 41/59

Financial Aid: 95%

Pell Grant: 22%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 66%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 8,787

Accepted: 50%

Enrolled: 16%

Grad in 6 Years: 76%

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (508) 793- 7431

Email Address: admissions @

clarku .edu

Strong Programs:

Psychology

Geography

Interactive Media/Game

Design

International Development and

Social Change

Political Science

Management

“[Clark’s campus has]

enough ivy, tall maples,

and collegiate brick

buildings to make a

traditionalist happy.”

Clark University

950 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01610- 1477

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CLARK UNIVERSITY 159

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

strength, as is environmental science and the school is exploring new models for

interdisciplinary research and practice surrounding climate change. The most pop-

ular majors include psychology, political science, interactive media, and manage-

ment. Established in 2021 in the wake of the closure of nearby Becker College,

Clark’s Becker School of Design & Technology offers majors in interactive media

design (with several concentrations in game development), integrated graphic

design, and eSports management. About 30 percent of graduating seniors take

advantage of an accelerated B.A./M.A. program that allows them to take a fifth

year of courses, with the help of a full- or partial- tuition scholarship, to obtain a

master’s degree.

While courses at Clark are challenging and professors expect regular partici-

pation, students say the small class sizes mean that collaboration and support are

the norm. “It’s not hard to find study- buddies- turned- friends in your classes,”

says a senior. Thirty percent of Clark students

spend at least one semester studying abroad,

usually during their junior year, at one of more

than 50 available programs in more than 20

countries. Sixty- four percent of students participate in undergraduate research,

often assisting faculty with projects or pursuing their own as an independent

study. “Clark’s identity is this perfect blend of two worlds,” says a senior, “research

allows us to dive deep into our passions while liberal arts prevents us from becom-

ing one- sided thinkers.”

“Clarkies are all a little bit weird, really like what they study, and are more gra-

nola,” says a senior. Thirty- eight percent of Clarkies hail from Massachusetts, and

international students make up another 7 percent. Black students account for 5 per-

cent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 10 percent, Asian Americans 7 percent,

and multiracial students 4 percent. The political climate on campus is “intensely

left- leaning,” says a senior. Merit- based scholarships are offered, but athletic schol-

arships are not available. The Presidential Scholarship, awarded to highly motivated

students with exceptional academic records, includes full tuition, room, and board

for four years. Clark commits to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of

students admitted through early decision plans.

First- year students and sophomores at Clark are required to live in the residence

halls. In all, 63 percent of undergrads live on campus in accommodations that are

described as clean, comfortable, and “surprisingly big.” Some upperclassmen look-

ing to save money find apartments and group houses nearby. Campus dining gets

average reviews for quality and diversity; “The secret is to use the spice and sauce

rack as much as possible,” confides an economics major. Students agree that the

campus feels safe.

Clark has no Greek life, but “sports teams kind of fill that partying gap,” explains

a senior. More than 130 student- run organizations offer endless concerts, improv

and theater shows, game nights, and other programs. First- year dorms are dry,

but alcohol may be consumed in other dorms by

those who are of age, and students say that alco-

hol policies emphasize safety over punishment.

“Most parties happen in the off- campus apart-

ments near Clark and never get too rowdy or

crazy,” notes a senior. Coping with the frigid New England winters includes quaff-

ing cups of hot chocolate and dreaming about Spree Day in April, when classes are

canceled and students enjoy live music, food trucks, face- painting, rock- climbing

walls, mechanical bulls, and other festivities. Students also look forward to the

annual International Gala, where students choreograph and perform dances repre-

senting 20 to 30 different countries.

Classes are canceled

for Spree Day in

April, when students

enjoy live music,

food trucks, face-

painting, and more.

“The faculty are dynamic,

often younger and earlier in

their careers.”

Clark is the only

American university

where pioneering

psychoanalyst Sigmund

Freud lectured.

“Most parties happen in

the off- campus apartments

near Clark and never get

too rowdy or crazy.”

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160 CLARKSON UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Worcester hosts eight colleges, and Worcester itself is described as “a city of

hidden gems,” according to one student, offering restaurants with every conceivable

type of cuisine, small clubs with live music, and the DCU Center, a 13,000- seat

arena. “Main South Worcester is not the prettiest, quietest locale for a college, but

it’s got flavor and spice, and you’ll either love it or hate it,” a biology major says.

Students mix with neighborhood residents through extensive volunteer programs

coordinated by the Office of Community Engagement and Volunteering (CEV). “At

most colleges, you would expect this to look more like ‘volun- tourism’ as opposed

to addressing the needs of the community, but Clark’s CEV office is headed by

people who know the issues from a resident’s perspective,” says a senior. To get

away, Clarkies head to Boston and Providence (both about an hour away), New York

(three hours), or the rural wilds of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

The Clark Cougars compete in the Division III New England Women’s and Men’s

Athletic Conference (NEWMAC), and the university fields 17 intercollegiate teams.

Men’s and women’s soccer, women’s rowing and volleyball, and men’s lacrosse

are among the most competitive teams. About half of the students participate in

intramural and club sports; ultimate Frisbee, ice hockey, and basketball are popular

options. In addition, Wellness Ambassadors, part of a skilled peer group, help stu-

dents practice healthy habits.

Like Johns Hopkins and the Catholic University of America, Clark started out

serving only graduate students but now offers a dynamic, undergraduate- focused

educational environment. Clark continues to challenge convention, pioneering

new teaching methods, pursuing new fields of knowledge, and finding new ways to

connect thinking and doing. Through all this, a sense of community has remained

a constant. Says a junior, “Clark is a warm and accepting place with students who

hold the door open for others for just a little too long.”

Most courses are

seminars and

60 percent have fewer

than 20 students.

Overlaps

Brandeis,

Northeastern,

Skidmore,

American

University, Tufts,

Union, University of

Vermont

If You Apply To ›

Clark: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

Application includes optional field for gender identity.

Clarkson University

Holcroft House, Box 5605, Potsdam, NY 13699

You know you’re in the North Country when the nearest major city is Ottawa.

Clarkson lies over the river and through the woods. With an informal and close- knit

atmosphere, Clarkson is one of the few small, undergraduate- oriented technological

universities in the nation. Compare to Lehigh, Bucknell, and Union. Out- of- the- way

location makes Clarkson easier to get into, but doing well is another matter.

At Clarkson University, engineering and ice hockey reign supreme. About half of

the student body is enrolled in the engineering program, and the hockey teams

are perennial contenders for top honors. Students here get a quality technical edu-

cation with an emphasis on teamwork and real- world professional preparation. At

Clarkson, says a junior, “We value academic integrity and success, but we also value

failure, because it is in failure that we learn to grow.” The small- town environment

offers plenty to do, especially during the sled- dog days of winter.

The village of Potsdam, New York, is cloistered away between the Adirondacks

Website: www .clarkson .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 3,403

Undergraduates: 2,778

Male/Female: 69/31

Financial Aid: 99%

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CLARKSON UNIVERSITY 161

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and the St. Lawrence River. The campus relies mainly on modern architecture and

lots of woods and wildlife. Academic buildings are connected by covered walk-

ways that help take the sting out of getting around campus in the cold, snowy

winters. Renovations across campus are ongoing, including the Schuler Educational

Resources Center’s Innovation Hub, which features labs, makerspaces, and group

meeting rooms.

The university’s general education program (Clarkson Common Experience)

emphasizes four components: learning to communicate effectively; developing an

appreciation for diversity; recognizing the impor-

tance of personal, societal, and professional

ethics; and understanding how technology can

be used to serve humanity. Freshmen (except

those in the honors program) take a first- year

seminar that helps develop critical- thinking, reading, and writing skills. All students

are required to complete a capstone professional experience, like a co- op, internship,

research project, or thesis.

Engineering isn’t the only academic offering at Clarkson, but it certainly gets

top billing, and it represents the three most popular majors: mechanical engi-

neering, engineering and management, and civil engineering. In the natural sci-

ences, biology and biomolecular science are among the strongest offerings, along

with environmental science and policy and environmental health science, which

are bolstered by the extensive research and outreach activities of the Institute for

a Sustainable Environment. The Reh School of Business is highly praised, too, and

offers several majors, including distinctive programs in global supply chain man-

agement and innovation and entrepreneurship. All business students must have

an international study experience and an internship in order to graduate, and first-

year students actually start and run a business. Clarkson does offer a few liberal arts

majors, like history, literature, and political science, but even these programs incor-

porate a focus on technology.

Clarkson, which was founded in 1896 to honor a local entrepreneur, prides itself

on intimacy and personalized instruction; 58 percent of classes have fewer than 20

students, and 27 percent of students conduct research with a faculty mentor. “I

would give the professors top marks for their lectures as well as other aspects such

as labs, office hours, and approachability,” says a mechanical engineering major.

Some students say Clarkson isn’t the academic pressure cooker that many technical

institutes can be. “The heavy and sometimes daunting workload is counteracted

by the supportive nature of the students and faculty,” says an environmental engi-

neering major. “We are encouraged to work together to solve problems.” Students

recommend taking advantage of the private, small- group, and drop- in tutoring ser-

vices offered by the Student Success Center, and they uniformly praise the school’s

career services for contributing to the university’s high job- placement rate. “The

Career Center is there to help you from day one and will provide assistance on any-

thing related to preparing you for your career,” enthuses a senior.

Study abroad opportunities are available in nearly 30 countries, although just

8 percent of students participate. The honors program accepts about 50 first- year

students, who undertake an intensive four- year curriculum. Several hundred stu-

dents from all majors join teams in Clarkson’s

Student Projects for Engineering Experience and

Design program, such as Formula SAE, concrete

canoe, and robotics competition teams. For women interested in STEM fields on this

male- dominated campus, the Women in Science and Engineering program enrolls

about 25 first- year students into a residential living/learning program.

“Most students here like to have fun on the weekends and grind during the

(continued)

Pell Grant: 19%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 78%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 7,011

Accepted: 75%

Enrolled: 14%

Grad in 6 Years: 78%

Returning Freshmen: 84%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (315) 268- 6480

Email Address: admissions @

clarkson .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Biology

Biomolecular Science

Environmental Science and

Policy

Environmental Health Science

Business

Global Supply Chain

Management

Innovation and

Entrepreneurship

“I would give the professors

top marks for their lectures

as well as . . . labs, office

hours, and approachability.”

“The Career Center is there

to help you from day one.”

All business students

must have an

international study

experience and an

internship in order

to graduate, and

first- year students

actually start and

run a business.

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162 CLARKSON UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

week,” says an engineering and management major. Sixty- five percent of the stu-

dent body is native to New York. Clarkson has trouble luring minorities to its remote

locale, although efforts to change that are underway; Black students currently make

up 3 percent of the undergraduate population, Hispanics/Latinos 6 percent, Asian

Americans 4 percent, and multiracial students 4 percent. International students

add another 3 percent. Students agree that the campus doesn’t usually get too

vocal about national political issues. Clarkson awards merit scholarships each year

averaging $32,200. Forty- one athletic scholarships are offered, but only men’s and

women’s ice hockey players need apply (it’s Clarkson’s only Division I sport).

Eighty- four percent of students live in campus housing. Students are required to

reside on campus all four years, unless exempted to live in an off- campus Greek

house. All freshmen are housed in living/learning communities with students in

their major or department, giving them the chance to study and learn together.

Students say the quality of the dorms varies considerably, but the on- campus apart-

ments offer more gracious living. The dining facilities generally get average marks.

“The food is very edible,” says a student. “Even professors eat it.”

In keeping with Clarkson’s “come- as- you- are” atmosphere, the social scene is low-

key. Residence halls and student clubs organize plentiful on- campus entertainment,

and 14 percent of the men and 9 percent of the women join the Greek system. Drinking

is permitted on campus for those of age, who also

head to the handful of bars in downtown Potsdam,

which one student describes as having “small-

town charm with an Adirondack twist.” With

three other colleges nearby, the town caters to students. The extended snowy winters

are great for snowboarders and ice climbers, and many students join the popular

Outing Club to enjoy such outdoor adventures year- round. “In the fall and spring stu-

dents can be found working toward their ‘46,’ or summiting all 46 high peaks in the

Adirondack State Park,” according to a senior. For those who crave the bustle of city

nightlife, Ottawa and Montreal are each about an hour and a half away by car.

When it comes to sports, Golden Knights ice hockey is first and foremost in the

hearts of Clarkson students. The men’s and women’s teams are perennially compet-

itive in the Eastern College Athletic Conference and nationally, contending for the

Division I championship with other blue- chip teams like St. Lawrence and Cornell.

The annual game against archrival St. Lawrence has evolved into a popular two- day

festival called Cold Out Gold Out, featuring live music, ice skating, horse- drawn car-

riage rides, and an alumni hockey match preceding the big game. Clarkson also offers

18 Division III sports. Women’s volleyball has won nine of the last 10 Liberty League

championships, and the men’s Alpine and women’s Nordic ski teams have brought

home recent USCSA national titles. Most students take advantage of club sports and

intramurals, with soccer, broomball, crew, and volleyball proving to be favorites.

“At Clarkson, we pride ourselves on being hardworking, innovative, creative,

and very ambitious,” comments a biology major. “We even hold friendly competi-

tions each year to showcase and reward student innovation.” Clarkson’s bread and

butter is its technological programs— particularly its slew of engineering majors— in

which students gain ample exposure to the ever- growing variety of specialties. They

also remember to have some fun along the way.

A popular two- day

festival called Cold

Out Gold Out features

live music, ice skating,

horse- drawn carriage

rides, and an alumni

hockey match.

“Most students here like to

have fun on the weekends

and grind during the week.”

Overlaps

Rochester Institute

of Technology,

Rensselaer,

Worcester

Polytechnic,

Wentworth

Institute of

Technology,

Stevens Institute of

Technology, Lehigh,

Bucknell, Union

If You Apply To ›

Clarkson: Early decision, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Application includes optional

field for gender identity. Please consult Clarkson’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test

requirements.

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CLEMSON UNIVERSITY 163

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Clemson University

Clemson, SC 29634

Clemson is a technically oriented public university in the mold of Georgia Tech, North

Carolina State, and Virginia Tech. Smaller than the latter two and more focused on

undergraduates than Georgia Tech, Clemson serves up its education with ample

helpings of school spirit and orange paint. Small- town location makes for a tight-

knit campus, though also something of a hayseed image next to more sophisticated

Carolina locales such as Columbia and Chapel Hill. Big on undergraduate research.

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Clemson University is a place

where traditional Southern spirit continues to flourish alongside modern academ-

ics, big- time athletics, and state- of- the- art facilities. This public university, founded

in 1889 as an agricultural college, has the ring of a private institution and features

quality academics in technical and scientific areas such as engineering and biology.

Tiger spirit is as strong as ever, as evidenced by the ubiquitous orange tiger paws

that decorate the campus, and students here are happy to make tracks of their own.

CU’s 1,400- acre campus is situated on what was once Fort Hill Plantation, the

homestead of Thomas Green Clemson. The campus is surrounded by 17,000 acres

of university farms and woodlands and offers a spectacular view of the nearby lake

and mountains. Architectural styles are an eclectic mix of modern and 19th- century

collegiate. Clemson Bottoms, half a mile down the road from the 80,000- seat foot-

ball stadium, is home to the Calhoun Field Laboratory, a pastoral site dedicated to

agricultural research that features a large, student- run organic garden. A fantastic

resource for science enthusiasts and history buffs is the library’s collection of first

editions of the scientific works of Galileo and Newton. Douthit Hills is a $212 mil-

lion residential village complete with dining and fitness facilities.

General education requirements include courses in advanced writing; oral com-

munications; mathematical, scientific, and technological literacy; social sciences;

arts and humanities; cross- cultural awareness; and science and technology in soci-

ety. Biological sciences is Clemson’s largest

department, and computer engineering is among

the nation’s best in research on large- scale inte-

grated computer circuitry and robotics. The

School of Architecture offers intensive semesters at the Overseas Center for Building

Research and Urban Study in Genoa, Italy. The accounting, animal and veterinary

sciences, and agriculture programs are also well regarded. Management, biological

sciences, psychology, marketing, and mechanical engineering are the most popular

majors. Undergraduate teaching has always been one of Clemson’s strong points,

and for students interested in pursuing a liberal arts curriculum, the school has

degrees in fine arts, philosophy, and languages and enjoys a strong regional reputa-

tion for its history program. Because of its prevailing technical emphasis, however,

most students interested in the liberal arts head “down country” to the University of

South Carolina.

Academically, the level of difficulty varies. “Classes are very competitive,” says

one junior. “While challenging at times, the coursework is stimulating and applica-

ble.” Professors run the gamut, but most receive high marks from students. “Professors

not only teach the classes but also make themselves available for tons of extra hours

outside of the classroom,” says a psychology major. Thirty- seven percent of the

classes have fewer than 20 students. Fifty- four percent of undergrads take advantage

of research opportunities during their time at Clemson. Ambitious students should

Website: www .clemson .edu

Location: Small Town

Public

Total Enrollment: 25,000

Undergraduates: 21,714

Male/Female: 47/53

Financial Aid: 87%

Pell Grant: 13%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 46%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 52,819

Accepted: 43%

Enrolled: 20%

Grad in 6 Years: 85%

Returning Freshmen: 92%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (864) 656- 2287

Email Address: admissions @

clemson .edu

Strong Programs:

Biological Sciences

Engineering

Architecture

Accounting

Animal and Veterinary

Sciences

Agriculture

Management

Psychology

“While challenging at

times, the coursework is

stimulating and applicable.”

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164 CLEMSON UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

consider applying to the Calhoun Honors College— the oldest honors program in

South Carolina. Clemson also offers exchange programs in venues from Mexico to

Australia, and 29 percent of students study abroad.

Clemson’s student body has a decidedly Southern air, as 60 percent of under-

grads hail from South Carolina, with most of the rest from neighboring states; less

than 1 percent come from foreign countries. The university has accepted large num-

bers of community college graduates in recent years. “Students are approachable

and willing to help on any given day,” says a marketing major. Black students make

up only 5 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 8 percent, Asian Americans

3 percent, and multiracial students 4 percent. The average Clemson student is

friendly and conservative, and though, as a public institution, the school isn’t affil-

iated with any church, there is a strong Southern Baptist presence on campus. The

university offers thousands of merit scholarships averaging $4,700 and more than

350 athletic scholarships.

Housing gets positive reviews, with several new residence halls opening in the

last few years, and 41 percent of the students live in campus housing, usually during

their first two years. Options include single- sex, co- ed, traditional, and apartment-

style housing. Meals in Clemson’s three main

dining halls are satisfactory, according to stu-

dents. “They have specials and even ask students

to contribute recipes,” explains one student.

Students say they feel safe on campus, thanks to diligent security officers. To address

the issue of sexual assault, a senior reports, Clemson has implemented “awareness

initiatives, events, and instructions on how to take action.”

“At Clemson, the fun is mostly right outside our windows,” says one student.

“Whether it’s a football game, a pep rally, a Residence Hall Association program, or

one of our U-Nites Friday night activities, students always find something to do.”

Fraternities and sororities provide much of the social life, with 9 percent of Clemson

men and 19 percent of women going Greek. The administration has introduced

measures such as limiting fraternity members to bringing just one six- pack of beer

to events, in an effort to curb hazing, alcohol abuse, and other problems related to

the Greek scene. The town of Clemson is small, with a handful of restaurants, bars,

and shops, but many students love it. After class, many students hop on their bikes

and head to nearby Lake Hartwell. The beautiful Blue Ridge mountain range is also

close by for hiking and camping, and beaches and ski slopes are both within driving

distance. Atlanta and Charlotte are only two hours away by car, and Charleston is

four hours away on the coast.

Clemson has a high- powered sports scene and fields a number of competitive

teams in the Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. The football team has won two

national championships since 2016, and in 2023 the men’s soccer team won its

fourth national championship in recent years. Football fever starts with the annual

First Friday Parade, held before the first home game, and on game days the campus

dissolves into a sea of Tiger orange, with pep rallies, cookouts, dances, and parties for

the mobs of excited fans. The roads leading to campus are painted with large orange

pawprints. So, too, are half the fans, making the stands in “Death Valley” look like

an orange grove. Tiger fans are especially rowdy when the reviled University of

South Carolina Gamecocks are in town; witness the traditional pregame pep rally

known as Cocky’s Funeral, during which “a giant cardboard ‘chicken’ is burned

to the ground and free chicken sandwiches are given out to students,” explains a

senior. Known as the Palmetto Bowl, the annual South Carolina game has been

played for more than a century. Baseball, men’s and women’s golf, and women’s

soccer are also very competitive. A plethora of intramural and club sports are avail-

able too.

On game days the

campus dissolves into

a sea of Tiger orange,

with pep rallies,

cookouts, dances,

and parties for the

mobs of excited fans.

“At Clemson, the fun is

mostly right outside our

windows.”

Computer engineering

is among the nation’s

best in research on

large- scale integrated

computer circuitry

and robotics.

Overlaps

Georgia Tech,

North Carolina

State, UNC at

Chapel Hill,

University of

Georgia, University

of South Carolina,

Virginia Tech,

Auburn, Coastal

Carolina

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COLBY COLLEGE 165

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Clemson is best at serving those whose interests lie in technical fields. School

spirit is contagious, fueled by a love of big- time college sports, and becomes lifelong

for many Clemson students. Everyone can become part of the Clemson family, from

Southern belle to Northern Yankee, as long as they’re friendly, easygoing, and

enthusiastic about life in general and the Tigers in particular.

If You Apply To ›

Clemson: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Music and theater applicants must audition.

Please consult Clemson’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Colby College

Waterville, ME 04901

The northernmost venue for high- quality, private higher education in New England.

Colby’s picturesque setting is a short hop from the eastern seacoast or Maine’s

western lakes and mountains. No Greek life since the college abolished it nearly

40 years ago. An active, outdoorsy, community- minded student body in the mold of

Middlebury and Dartmouth, and more buttoned- up than Bates or Bowdoin. Invented

the month- long January term.

Colby College draws students who like to push themselves, whether in the class-

room, in creative pursuits, in volunteer work, or on skis. The city of Waterville,

Maine (population 16,000), is a vibrant place to study; close friendships with peers

and professors help ward off the long winter chill. Colby’s top- notch study abroad

program offers students an opportunity to explore the world, and even those who

don’t spend a semester or year away can get a taste during the month of January,

when Jan Plan trips send Colby students far beyond the grip of Maine winters.

Colby sits high atop Mayflower Hill, with beautiful views of the surrounding

city and countryside. Its 714 acres include a wildlife management area, miles of

cross- country trails, and a pond used in winter as an ice- skating rink. Georgian

architecture predominates, and the oldest build-

ings are redbrick with white trim and brass name-

plates above their green doors. The more

contemporary buildings lend a touch of moder-

nity, and the Colby Museum of Art is renowned.

The iconic Colby library tower is topped with a blue light proudly showing off the

primary school color. The Paul J. Schupf Art Center, an $18 million community arts

center in downtown Waterville opened in 2022, and the $85 million Gordon Center

for Creative and Performing Arts was completed in 2023. Colby also recently estab-

lished centers for teaching, research, and artistic inspiration related to biodiversity

and other current issues on two islands in the Gulf of Maine, previously owned by

the painter Andrew Wyeth and his wife Betsy.

As a small college with a history of innovation and educational excellence dating

to 1813, Colby encourages students to learn for learning’s sake. Students must com-

plete distribution requirements in English composition, foreign language, “areas”

(courses in arts, historical studies, literature, quantitative reasoning, social sciences,

and natural sciences), diversity, and wellness (five supper seminars over the first two

semesters). Colby was the first men’s college in New England to admit women and

Website: www .colby .edu

Location: Rural

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,299

Undergraduates: 2,299

Male/Female: 48/52

Financial Aid: 46%

Pell Grant: 16%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 40%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 16,890

Accepted: 8%

Enrolled: 52%

Grad in 6 Years: 88%

Returning Freshmen: 93%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 723- 3032

Email Address: admissions @

colby .edu

Strong Programs:

Biology

Economics

Environmental Studies

“There are spaces for

students who come

from more marginalized

backgrounds.”

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166 COLBY COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

the first college anywhere to establish a 4– 1– 4 academic calendar with a four- week

January term— known on campus as Jan Plan— between semesters. Students usually

take three Jan Plan terms for credit to graduate, but many take four, using the month

to pursue one intensive academic or career experience, such as a research project,

internship, or study abroad. The COOT program (Colby Outdoor Orientation Trips),

required of all first- years, involves three- day excursions by bicycle, canoe, or foot

that introduce newcomers to the beauty of the Maine wilderness or to service or

theater experiences.

Colby students choose from 58 majors. Popular and well- regarded programs

include biology, economics, environmental studies, government, and psychology.

Colby offers cross- disciplinary study at Davis Institute for Artificial Intelligence, the

first such institute at a liberal arts college, with

significant opportunities for faculty and student

research. Students study oceanography through

Colby’s partnership with the Bigelow Laboratory

for Ocean Sciences in East Boothbay, Maine. For would- be engineers, there is a joint

3– 2 program with Dartmouth and 3– 2 and 4– 2 programs with Columbia; others

may opt for exchange programs with the Claremont Colleges and Howard. Classes

are small and academics are demanding, but it helps that Colby’s faculty is unusu-

ally devoted to undergraduate teaching and easily accessible. “Professors are chal-

lenging and provoke students to think critically, but not at the expense of helping

you find your passions,” muses an education and French major.

Study abroad is a serious emphasis at Colby, and the opportunities to do so

begin early. First- year students can apply to the Global Entry Semester program,

whisking off to France or Spain with 20 or so classmates for the fall semester. Half of

the school’s majors have an international component, and nearly 70 percent of

Colby students spend some time abroad, including Colby- sponsored Jan Plan trips.

About 40 percent of students conduct undergraduate research, and those who stay

on campus during the summer as research assistants for faculty are rewarded with a

two- day Summer Research Retreat in The Forks, Maine, dedicated to short talks,

presentations, and white- water rafting or hiking adventures. DavisConnects pro-

vides career advising and guarantees every student access to at least one internship,

research, and global experience, regardless of their ability to pay.

Colby’s student body, in the words of a junior, has a “preppy crunchy” vibe.

“Lots of Colby students are outdoorsy,” says a student. Although the proportion of

Pell- eligible students has been rising in recent years, “there are spaces for students

who come from more marginalized backgrounds

to gather and find community, and that’s some-

thing Colby has definitely been working to

improve,” says a senior global studies major.

Still, Colby is predominantly a white institution. Black students account for 5 per-

cent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 8 percent, Asian Americans 10 percent,

and multiracial students 7 percent. Just 6 percent of Colby students are Mainers, and

10 percent are international. Politically, “Mayflower Hill is a very liberal space,” says

a sophomore; environmental issues are of top concern. All financial aid at Colby is

need- based, the college meets 100 percent of students’ demonstrated need, and it

has replaced student loans with grants in all its financial aid packages.

Students are required to live in college housing for all four years, but one senior

describes the nicer accommodations as “hard to get.” On- campus residence halls,

which students say are “very average,” have live- in faculty members. A residential

complex in downtown Waterville offers a living/learning community focused on

civic engagement for 200 juniors and seniors. “Colby has three good dining halls,

each with their own flair, and makes an effort to source locally and sustainably,”

(continued)

Government

Global Studies

Psychology

Computer Science

Computational Biology

“Colby has three good

dining halls, each with their

own flair.”

Study abroad is a

serious emphasis

at Colby, and the

opportunities to do so

begin in the first year.

“You can find people

who are up for anything,

including a quiet night in.”

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COLGATE UNIVERSITY 167

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

says a senior; a grab- and- go spot in the student union and a student- run coffee shop

offer more options. First- years and sophomores take training workshops on sexual

violence prevention, and one student remarks, “Colby makes its standards very clear

to students.”

Colby may eschew fraternities and sororities, but parties in the senior apart-

ments are a weekend staple and tend to be driven by sports teams. “Campus policies

around alcohol are about creating a healthy drinking culture,” says a junior, and a

sophomore adds, “The party atmosphere is fairly diverse and you can find people

who are up for anything, including a quiet night in.” Fall Concert and Spring Concert

bring well- known musical acts to campus once per semester. Another favorite— but

not school- sanctioned— tradition is Doghead, “where students party and stay up the

whole night on St. Patrick’s Day weekend and watch the sunrise from the library

steps together,” explains a senior. Downtown Waterville offers some good restau-

rants and bars, but otherwise it’s “not the most active town for young people,” says

a computer science major. Popular Maine road trips include Portland, Freeport

(home to the L.L. Bean factory and store), Mount Desert Island, and Sugarloaf

Mountain (for skiing). Also easy to reach are the bright lights of Boston and Montreal.

The Colby Mules have come a long way since the first intercollegiate croquet

game, played at Colby in 1860. Sports are Division III, except for squash and skiing,

which are Division I, and solid programs include women’s ice hockey, lacrosse, and

Nordic skiing, and men’s ice hockey, cross- country, and track and field. Games

against Bates and Bowdoin draw crowds, especially the annual Bowdoin hockey

match. A majority of the students participate in club and intramural sports; rugby,

ultimate Frisbee, basketball, and badminton are some of the most popular.

Colby’s traditional New England liberal arts college feel and increasingly global

focus extend far beyond its small- city setting and historic buildings. They permeate

the air, punctuated by the long- standing traditions, abundant school spirit, and

caring faculty members who focus on developing their students’ minds.

Colby was the first

men’s college in

New England to

admit women.

Overlaps

Bowdoin,

Amherst, Williams,

Middlebury,

Hamilton,

Dartmouth, Bates,

Carleton

If You Apply To ›

Colby: Early decision I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

Colgate University

13 Oak Drive, Hamilton, NY 13346

With just over 3,200 students, Colgate is smaller than Bucknell and Dartmouth but

bigger than Hamilton and Williams. Like the other four, it offers small- town living

and close interaction between students and faculty and offers many study abroad

opportunities. Greek organizations and jocks are still well entrenched despite

perennial administrative efforts to neutralize their influence.

While you may see the same Canada Goose jackets coming and going (and coming

and going) as you stroll across Colgate University’s campus, the students in them

aren’t all spun from the same cloth. “Most students at Colgate are freethinkers and

open to new ideas,” says a sophomore. From the herbarium to the Devonian fossils

to the abundance of interdisciplinary courses, it’s clear that Colgate has more to

offer than just its picture- postcard setting. “Colgate draws students who want a high

level of academic rigor and a top- tier liberal arts education,” says one student. Adds

Website: www .colgate .edu

Location: Rural

Private

Total Enrollment: 3,120

Undergraduates: 3,112

Male/Female: 44/56

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168 COLGATE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

another of the supportive environment among students and faculty, “You can take

risks and be creative in your approach to academics without fear [of failure].”

Colgate’s 13 founders started the school in 1817 with 13 prayers and 13 dol-

lars. Their prayers were answered by soapmaking mogul William Colgate and his

sons (think: toothpaste), whose decades of philanthropic gift- giving to the fledgling

university were enough to get the name changed in 1890 from Madison to Colgate.

Today, the 575- acre campus sits on a hillside in rural New York, overlooking the

village of Hamilton. Stately bluestone buildings peek out from tree- lined drives; lush

green spaces are perfect for rugby, Frisbee, or other outdoor diversions, at least in

the warmer months. Rolling hills and farmland surround the campus, making for

stunning vistas all year long.

Aside from blazing a trail to rural New York, Colgate has led its peers in empha-

sizing interdisciplinary study. The faculty first established an interdisciplinary core

program in 1928, and it’s been a foundation of the curriculum ever since. Even now,

all first- years take a seminar, capped at 18 stu-

dents each, that introduces liberal arts topics,

skills, resources, and ways of learning. Students

choose from more than 40 topics, and seminar

instructors double as academic advisors until stu-

dents declare majors their sophomore year. Everyone completes four liberal arts core

courses— Core Communities, Core Conversations, and Core Sciences— as well as

courses emphasizing five liberal arts practices. Students also take classes in a range of

disciplines that cover three broad areas: Human Thought and Expression; Social

Relations, Institutions, and Agents; and Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

The academic climate “is rigorous but empowering,” enthuses a freshman.

Students give high marks to Colgate’s natural and social sciences programs, and

economics, political science, international relations, psychology, and computer

science are the most popular majors. Befitting Colgate’s rugged location, there are

five interdisciplinary environmental majors: environmental studies, environmen-

tal biology, environmental geography, environmental geology, and environmen-

tal economics. Seventy- two percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, and

an English major says, “Colgate professors do an excellent job of breaking down

the professor/student hierarchy that can sometimes make students— especially

underclassmen— nervous.”

Classrooms and labs devoted to foreign language study help students gain com-

fort with another tongue— a good thing, since 63 percent of students study abroad.

In addition to about 20 semester- long, faculty- led off- campus study programs

(called “study groups”), Colgate offers five to eight “extended- study” travel pro-

grams that serve as two- or three- week extensions of regular on- campus courses.

More than 100 other preapproved study abroad programs offer additional options.

The Sophomore Residential Seminars program enables selected students to live

together in the same residence hall and take a semester- long course that is capped

off with a weeklong trip; recent participants have traveled to the U.S.– Mexico

border to study the economics of immigration and to Colombia for a course on the

geography of global beverages. Over 80 percent of students get involved with

undergraduate research, and the school designates over $1 million each year for

students pursuing summer research, as well as

for unpaid or underpaid summer opportunities.

Students rave about Colgate’s Career Services

office, which offers 215 formal recruiting part-

ners. “Career Services brings employers and alumni to campus on a weekly basis to

meet and network with students,” explains a junior, adding it’s “certainly one of

Colgate’s most distinct perks.”

(continued)

Financial Aid: 51%

Pell Grant: 12%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 26%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 21,109

Accepted: 12%

Enrolled: 31%

Grad in 6 Years: 91%

Returning Freshmen: 94%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (315) 228- 7401

Email Address: admission @

colgate .edu

Strong Programs:

Natural Sciences

Social Sciences

Environmental Studies

Economics

Political Science

English

Psychology

Computer Science

“[Colgate students] can

take risks and be creative

in your approach to

academics.”

All first- years take

a seminar that

introduces liberal

arts topics, skills,

resources, and

ways of learning.

“Career Services brings

employers and alumni to

campus on a weekly basis.”

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COLGATE UNIVERSITY 169

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

A senior says, “Students at Colgate are ambitious, driven, and intellectually curi-

ous,” and according to a sophomore, they can be “wealthy and preppy” but the

campus is “gradually getting more diverse.” Twenty- two percent of students are New

Yorkers, while 9 percent are international. Black students account for 5 percent of

the population, Hispanics/Latinos 9 percent, Asian Americans 6 percent, and mul-

tiracial students 5 percent. Students credit the ALANA Cultural Center with “foster-

ing a comfortable and friendly environment” and describe a left- leaning political

climate. Colgate does not award merit scholarships, but about 200 athletic schol-

arships are available in 13 sports. The university meets 100 percent of enrolled stu-

dents’ demonstrated financial need. Additionally, Colgate removed loans from aid

packages for students whose annual family income is less than $175,000, and stu-

dents whose annual family income is less than $80,000 attend tuition- free. Colgate

has adjusted tuition costs to a percentage of annual income for students from fami-

lies with annual income between $80,000 and $175,000.

Ninety- five percent of Colgate students live in the residence halls, which range

from traditional buildings with fireplaces to newer facilities that seem more like

hotels. Students are housed in residential communities called Commons for their

first two years and remain affiliated with their Commons throughout their four

years. About 250 upperclassmen are allowed to live off campus each year. The main

dining hall, Frank, serves up plenty of all- you- can- eat options that students mostly

praise. A freshman reports “Colgate has implemented sexual assault workshops and

lectures for first- year students,” and blue light call- buttons around campus add to a

general feeling of safety. A psychology major adds, “There is a large focus on mental

health within the Colgate community, creating an open and encouraging space for

students to discuss it honestly.”

Twenty- six percent of students join fraternities and sororities. “Greek organiza-

tions set the tone for social life,” says a physics major. The university owns and

manages all Greek housing, and recruitment is delayed until sophomore year. While

the Greek system may dominate the party scene,

most students agree that there is little pressure to

participate, and with more than 200 campus

clubs and organizations, there are plenty of alternatives. “Colgate is a place where

people want to be doing something social even in the dead of winter,” says an eco-

nomics major. Students enjoy free “Take Two” movies on Friday and Saturday nights

and open- mic nights at the campus pub, Donovan’s. Everyone looks forward to

ALANApalooza, Dancefest, and Springfest, a last blast before finals that celebrates

the thaw with a big concert, barbecues, and fireworks. Given the significance of the

number 13 to the school’s founding, every Friday the 13th is dubbed Colgate Day, a

time to show off school spirit and pride. On the eve of graduation, seniors don their

graduation robes for the Torchlight Ceremony, during which the graduating stu-

dents process down the hill they walked up together during orientation.

In addition to a required four- day orientation, first- year students may partici-

pate in one of several preorientation programs, such as Wilderness Adventure, where

groups of 8 to 12 canoe and hike in the Adirondacks. Hamilton is within walking

distance of campus, but there’s also a free bus that cycles through every half hour,

especially nice in the depths of winter. The Old Stone Jug is a favorite hangout, and

the Palace Theater draws crowds with music, dancing, and a bar. There are also sev-

eral alumni- owned shops and restaurants in the quiet town. For those with wheels,

skiing is 45 minutes away, and the malls and city lights of Syracuse and Utica are

roughly the same distance.

About a third of Colgate students enjoy facing off in 12 intramural competi-

tions and 40 club sports, but students’ most fervent cheers are reserved for Division

I men’s ice hockey against Cornell. “When Cornell comes to our rink, we throw Big

The local Palace

Theater draws

crowds with music,

dancing, and a bar.

“Colgate is a hidden gem in

the Chenango Valley.”

Over 80 percent of

students get involved

with undergraduate

research.

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170 UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Red gum on the ice, and they throw Colgate toothpaste on the ice [for matches at

Cornell],” explains a junior. Women’s ice hockey is a powerhouse, and the Raiders

men’s basketball and women’s volleyball teams are recent Patriot League conference

champions. Even weekend warriors may take advantage of facilities like the Sanford

Field House, the Lineberry natatorium, and the Seven Oaks golf course.

Colgate led the way in interdisciplinary work and continues to do so now. What

else has remained constant? A senior offers this assessment: “I think Colgate has

embraced its identity as different from other liberal arts colleges in that we are not a

crunchy granola hippie school, and we are not a socially progressive bastion of for-

ward thinking. Colgate is what it is: a hidden gem in the Chenango Valley.”

Overlaps

Middlebury,

Cornell, UVA,

Bowdoin, Colby,

Bucknell, Hamilton,

Williams

If You Apply To ›

Colgate: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult

Colgate’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

University of Colorado Boulder

Regent Administrative Center 125, 552 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309

Boulder is a legendary place that draws everyone from East Coast ski bums to

California transplants. The scenery is breathtaking and the science programs are

first- rate. The University of Arizona is the only public university of similar stature in

the Mountain West. Check out the residential academic programs.

Wild buffalo may be all but extinct on America’s Great Plains, but they’re in bois-

terous residence, proudly wearing gold and black, at the University of Colorado

Boulder. A bevy of scholars’ programs and residential academic programs give the

campus a community feel, and students choose from a solid menu of academic

offerings, including research experience, study abroad, and service learning. “There

are so many ways to be active and engaged in your learning at Boulder,” cheers a

sophomore. And with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s no surprise that

CU Boulder Buffaloes are a happy herd.

Tree- shaded walkways, winding bike paths, open spaces, and an incredible view

of the dramatic Flatirons rock formation make CU’s 600- acre Boulder campus a haven

for students from both coasts and for Colorado residents eager to pursue knowledge

in a snowy paradise. The university was founded

in 1876 as Colorado was becoming a state, and

the campus includes about 200 classic rural

Italian- style buildings and complexes built of

Colorado sandstone with red tile roofs. City bus

passes are included in the cost of tuition and fees, the campus Environmental Center

facilitates sustainable culture and practices, and ongoing renovations and construc-

tion projects embody the university’s commitment to sustainability and energy effi-

ciency. Campus projects in the past few years include an addition that physically

connects the main engineering and business buildings and features an innovation

and entrepreneurship hub as well as a 200- seat auditorium.

Entering freshmen and transfer students at CU Boulder choose from the

following colleges, schools, and programs: the College of Arts and Sciences

(which enrolls 70 percent of the students); the College of Music; the College of

Website: www .colorado .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 31,534

Undergraduates: 28,686

Male/Female: 53/47

Financial Aid: 60%

Pell Grant: 15%

Expense: Pub $ $

Student Loans: 36%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 54,861

Accepted: 79%

Enrolled: 16%

Grad in 6 Years: 75%

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (303) 492- 6301

Email Address: admissions @

colorado .edu

Strong Programs:

Aerospace Engineering

Sciences

“Professors and graduate

student instructors alike

have taken a keen interest

in students’ progress.”

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UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER 171

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Engineering and Applied Science (the hardest to enter, students say); the College

of Media, Communication, and Information; the Program in Environmental

Design; the Leeds School of Business; the School of Education; and the Program

in Exploratory Studies (which allows students to explore options before select-

ing a major). General education requirements cover three skills acquisition

areas— written communication, quantitative reasoning and math, and foreign

language— and three distribution categories: arts and humanities, natural sci-

ences, and social sciences.

“Unlike other highly competitive universities, there is a high level of collabora-

tion,” says an applied mathematics major. “Your classmates won’t refuse to work

with you, and you are always comfortable asking questions and asking for help.” CU

Boulder offers more than 4,500 courses each year

in approximately 160 areas of study; psychology,

finance, strategic communication, and integra-

tive physiology are among the most popular

majors. Outstanding programs include aerospace

engineering sciences, physics, astronomy, chemical and biological engineering,

computer science, music, business administration, and environmental studies. CU

Boulder consistently ranks among the top universities in the country to receive

NASA funding, leading to lots of opportunities for the design, construction, and

flight of model spacecraft— and to 18 CU Boulder alumni having worked as astro-

nauts. A space minor is open to qualified students in any major. Established in 2021,

the Center for African and African American Studies supports teaching and research

focused on the history and culture of people of African descent. The university also

offers 45 bachelor’s-accelerated master’s degree programs, which allow students to

earn two degrees in a shorter period of time. Forty- one percent of all undergraduate

classes enroll fewer than 20 students, and a freshman says, “In my experience, pro-

fessors and graduate student instructors alike have taken a keen interest in students’

progress, success, and learning.”

CU Boulder has tried to make its large campus seem smaller through its 11 spe-

cialized living/learning residential academic programs focusing on topics such as

global studies, natural sciences and the environment, the arts, and engineering,

which one senior says is “for freshmen essential for gaining a well- rounded experi-

ence at CU.” The Presidents Leadership Class is a four- year scholarship program

that provides promising students with leadership training, internships, volunteer

opportunities, and visits with influential leaders. The Honors Program invites the

top 10 percent of each incoming class in the College of Arts and Sciences to join.

Multiple programs at CU Boulder support undergraduate research and community

service opportunities, and the university sponsors 350 study abroad programs

around the world.

“Students are relaxed and explorative, curious and inquisitive, fun- loving and

good- natured, focused and committed,” says one Buffalo. Fifty- six percent of CU

Boulder’s undergraduates come from Colorado, and 3 percent come from abroad.

Hispanics/Latinos account for 13 percent of the

undergraduate population, Asian Americans

6 percent, Black students 2 percent, and multira-

cial students 7 percent. Social and political issues

on campus include “wealth, liberalism, and inequality,” according to one student.

Qualified undergrads receive merit scholarships worth an average of $9,220, and

about 318 athletes receive scholarships as well. Additional programs provide debt-

free financial incentives for qualified in- state students whose family income is at or

below the federal poverty line. The university also guarantees incoming freshmen

that tuition and fees will not increase over their four years.

(continued)

Physics

Astronomy

Chemical and Biological

Engineering

Computer Science

Music

Business Administration

Environmental Studies

“Students are relaxed and

explorative, curious and

inquisitive, fun- loving and

good- natured.”

CU Boulder

consistently ranks

among the top

universities in the

country to receive

NASA funding.

“The party scene is fairly

large and has a lot going

on most weekends.”

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172 UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

First- year students are required to live on campus, and 27 percent of all under-

grads stay in university housing. “The older dorms are still in pretty good shape

but aren’t as nice as the newer dorms,” a sophomore reports. Most sophomores,

juniors, and seniors find off- campus digs in Boulder. An alternative to the main

Center for Community dining center and 16 smaller dining locations is the Alferd

Packer Restaurant & Grill, which takes its name from a controversial 19th- century

folk figure known as the “Colorado Cannibal.” Bon appétit. Generally, students say

the campus is safe. CU Boulder offers nighttime transportation via a service called

CU NightRide.

For the culturally minded, the university and the city of Boulder offer films and

plays, the renowned Colorado Shakespeare Festival, art galleries and museums,

and concerts by top bands. Denver is only 30 miles southeast, reachable by a free

bus service. Most students get involved in community service, and the CU Engage

center coordinates service- learning courses and community- based research oppor-

tunities. Fewer than one- quarter of students go Greek, and fraternity and sorority

parties have changed dramatically since CU Boulder’s sorority chapters became the

first in the nation to voluntarily make their houses dry. On campus, the ban on

alcohol is taken seriously, and dorms are officially substance- free. Still, “The party

scene is fairly large and has a lot going on most weekends,” says a political science

major. Day trips to ski resorts like Breckenridge and Vail largely replace weekend

getaways here, but for those who’ve got to get out of the cold, Las Vegas isn’t so far,

says one student.

Physical exercise is a popular extracurricular activity at CU Boulder, especially

the sort that involves sliding down snow- covered mountains. The massive Student

Recreation Center features indoor and outdoor pools, a multipurpose turf gym, an

ice rink, a climbing gym, and several multipurpose courts, among other facilities.

Varsity teams compete in the Division I Big 12 Conference as of 2024, and the

Buffaloes men’s and women’s basketball, cross- country, and skiing teams are some of

the strongest, along with women’s soccer and lacrosse. Ralphie, the live buffalo who

acts as CU Boulder’s mascot, doesn’t miss a game— and neither do many students.

Each year, football fans flock to Denver to watch the Rocky Mountain Showdown

game against Colorado State. The club sports program, which boasts 31 options, is

highly competitive, regularly bringing home national titles in sports ranging from

ice hockey and snowboarding to cycling and triathlon. Intramurals sign up about a

third of the students each year.

If you want to flex your muscles as well as your mind, look beyond the ivy-

covered bricks and gray city skies endemic to so many Eastern institutions, and

consider all the West has to offer instead. “The amount of resources students can

utilize to further their education or gain experience in their field at CU and in the

city of Boulder is immense and overwhelming,” says one student.

The university also

guarantees incoming

freshmen that

tuition and fees will

not increase over

their four years.

Overlaps

University

of Arizona,

Colorado State,

UW– Madison,

Cal Poly– San

Luis Obispo,

University of

Oregon, University

of Washington,

Indiana University,

Arizona State

If You Apply To ›

CU Boulder: Early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application. Music applicants

must audition.

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COLORADO COLLEGE 173

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Colorado College

14 East Cache La Poudre Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

The Block Plan, a one- course- at- a- time academic schedule, is CC’s claim to fame. It

is great for in- depth study and short- term study abroad but less suited to academic

projects that take an extended period of time. Colorado Springs is an ideal location

at the base of the Rockies, which draw outdoor enthusiasts and East Coasters who

want to ski. CC is the only top liberal arts college between Iowa and the Pacific.

Colorado College is one of the few U.S. schools offering one- course- at- a- time block

scheduling. For more than a century, CC’s focus on creative approaches to academ-

ics and its breathtaking location at the edge of the Rocky Mountains have drawn

bright, independent liberal arts enthusiasts who also like to go out and play. “People

don’t come to CC because they want to make a ton of money or maintain the status

quo,” asserts a senior. “They come because they want to change the world, help

others, and have a little fun.”

Colorado’s campus lies at the foot of Pike’s Peak, in the town of Colorado

Springs. Many homes in the surrounding neighborhood are on the National Register

of Historic Places, as are many CC buildings, including its first, Cutler Hall, and

Palmer Hall, named after town founder William J. Palmer, a major force behind

the establishment of the college in 1874. The prevailing architectural styles are

Romanesque and English Gothic, with some more modern structures thrown in.

The $52 million, 3,400- seat Robson Arena, hosting CC’s Division I men’s ice hockey

team, opened in 2021.

CC requires students to take courses focused on global cultures, issues of inequal-

ity (with respect to nationality, race, ethnicity, gender, class, and/or sexuality), natu-

ral sciences, and quantitative reasoning. Foreign language proficiency is also required.

What really defines the academic climate, though, is the

Block Plan (see also Cornell College in Iowa). Students

take eight courses between early September and mid-

May but focus on each one, in turn, for three and a half

weeks. Some courses, such as those involving longer-

term projects, are two blocks long. Four- and- a- half- day

breaks separate the blocks. The plan helps students stay focused, eliminating the

temptation to let one course slide so that they can catch up in another. But there are

trade- offs. Students say it can be hard to integrate material from courses taken one at

a time. There’s also the danger of burnout, because so much material on a single sub-

ject is crammed into such a short span. An optional “half block” in January gives

students a chance to explore niche academic interests or learn professional skills to

become more competitive in the job market. In addition, an optional summer ses-

sion offers three blocks.

The First- Year Program, consisting of a two- block sequence of courses with a

student mentor and two advisors, helps students adjust to college- level academics,

research, and the fast pace of the Block Plan. “CC is extremely collaborative,” notes

an environmental policy major. “However, it’s extremely intense.” Two- thirds of

the classes have fewer than 20 students, and required courses aren’t hard to get into,

since spots are secured with an auction system. At the beginning of each year, stu-

dents get 80 points to “bid” on the classes they want. Those who bid the most for

a particular class get a seat. If you’re going to take only one class at a time, it helps

to like the teacher, and students say that’s usually no problem here. “The professors

Website: www

.coloradocollege .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,147

Undergraduates: 2,139

Male/Female: 45/55

Financial Aid: 59%

Pell Grant: 15%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 30%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 7,846

Accepted: 16%

Enrolled: 42%

Grad in 6 Years: 86%

Returning Freshmen: 96%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 542- 7214

Email Address: admission @

coloradocollege .edu

Strong Programs:

Geology

Environmental Science

Southwest Studies

Economics

Political Science

Organismal Biology and

Ecology

Computer Science

Molecular Biology

“People come to CC

because they want

to change the world,

help others, and have

a little fun.”

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174 COLORADO COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

are very accessible, and it is easy to have a good working relationship,” says a history

and political science major.

The most popular majors at Colorado include economics, political science,

organismal biology and ecology, computer science, and molecular biology.

Students say that the sciences in general, and particularly geology and environ-

mental science, are strengths. The block schedule permits some classes at unique

times and in unique places— for instance, astronomy at midnight, or coral biology

work in the Caribbean. The college’s popular major in Southwest studies includes

time at its Baca campus, 175 miles away in the historic San Luis Valley. Other

interesting interdisciplinary programs include race, ethnicity, and migration stud-

ies and a new major in business, economics, and society. In addition to giving

students the option to pick semester- and yearlong abroad programs in more than

60 countries, Colorado College faculty also teach about 25 off- campus blocks, both

domestically and internationally, throughout the school year and summer session.

Roughly half of the students study off campus at least once during their time at

Colorado.

Just 21 percent of Colorado College students are in- staters, 7 percent are interna-

tional, and the rest are from all over the United States. “The students are laid- back,

nature- loving hippies,” says a student. CC is more selective but less socioeconomically

diverse than its closest peer, Cornell College— just

15 percent of Colorado freshmen qualify for Pell

Grants. Three percent of undergrads are Black,

11 percent are Hispanic/Latino, 5 percent are

Asian American, and 7 percent are multiracial— and the school is trying to attract

more diversity. Groups like the Queer Straight Alliance, the Feminist Collective, the

Jewish Chaverim, and the Black Student Union provide support to students of varied

backgrounds and viewpoints. “The general political orientation is extremely liberal,”

says a senior. The college meets 100 percent of admitted students’ demonstrated

financial need, and a limited number of merit scholarships, averaging $11,800, and

athletic scholarships are available.

Seventy- nine percent of students call campus housing home, and only seniors are

permitted to live off campus. “The underclassmen dorms range from brand- new,

almost luxury suites, to pretty old but full of character,” says a senior. The “excep-

tional” dining facilities include a traditional, all- you- can- eat dining hall; a grill with

American, Mexican, and sushi options; and an all- natural café and convenience store.

The Student Organization for Sexual Safety raises awareness and addresses campus

culture around issues like consent and sexual assault.

When the weekend comes, students unwind at parties in friends’ rooms or

seniors’ off- campus houses. “There is a very large drug and alcohol presence on

campus,” reports a senior, “though it absolutely is not mandatory,” socially speak-

ing. The “low- key” Greek system attracts a small portion of students. Favorite tradi-

tions include the annual Llamapalooza and Blues & Shoes (bluegrass and horseshoes)

music festivals, and the monthly Full Moon

Cruisers, where “students gather at 10 p.m.

decked out in crazy outfits to ride their bikes

downtown and party under the full moon,”

explains a student. For those seeking a bit of

urban culture, Denver and Boulder are a short drive away. Most CC students love

heading off campus to ski or hike, either at nearby resorts or in Utah, New Mexico,

or the Grand Canyon. Freshman outdoor orientation trips help newcomers sort out

the options, from backpacking and hiking to rafting, bicycling, and windsurfing.

Students can even reserve a college- owned mountainside cabin. Service trips are

sponsored during block breaks, and the majority of students do some type of

“The general political

orientation is extremely

liberal.”

Students take eight

courses between early

September and mid-

May but focus on each

one, in turn, for three

and a half weeks.

Most CC students love

heading off campus

to ski or hike, either

at nearby resorts or

in Utah, New Mexico,

or the Grand Canyon.

“The underclassmen dorms

range from brand- new

to pretty old but full of

character.”

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COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES 175

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

community service during their time at CC, often through community- based learn-

ing courses.

The Colorado College Tigers compete in two Division I sports— men’s ice hockey

and women’s soccer— as well as 15 Division III sports. Men’s and women’s soccer,

lacrosse, swimming, and cross- country and women’s volleyball have made national

tournament appearances in recent years. The hockey rivalry with the University of

Denver is huge. Students are also active in a dozen intramurals and 17 club sports.

The Block Plan made Colorado College what it is today, and the school contin-

ues to build on this reputation. As one senior underscores, “The intensive and

demanding nature of the Block Plan calls for deep but quick thinkers [and] hard but

patient workers.” For those who are up to the challenge, CC offers a supportive envi-

ronment, with a healthy dose of fun, where they can thrive.

Overlaps

Cornell College,

University

of Denver,

Middlebury,

Colby, Whitman,

Carleton, Wesleyan,

University of

Colorado Boulder

If You Apply To ›

Colorado College: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common

Application with supplement.

Colorado School of Mines

1812 Illinois Street, Golden, CO 80401

Mines is the preeminent technical institute in the Mountain West. Getting in is not

all that hard; getting through is another story. One- sixth the size of Texas Tech

and best known for mining- related fields but strong in many areas of engineering.

Men outnumber women by more than 2 to 1. Golden provides easy access to the

mountains and Denver. Graduates are heavily recruited.

If you’re a bit of a geek whose only dilemma is what type of engineer to become, and

you want to spend your scarce free time hiking, biking, and skiing with friends, then

Colorado School of Mines may be the place for you. This public school’s small size

and rugged location endear it to the students

who shoulder heavy workloads to earn their

degrees. “There are often fun and entertaining

conversations that could only be possible with

the types of students here,” says a mechanical

engineering major. Just down the road from Coors Brewing Co., which taps the

Rockies for its legendary brews, students at Mines learn to tap the same mountains

for coal, oil, and other natural resources.

The school’s 373- acre campus sits in the shadow of the spectacular Rocky

Mountains in tiny Golden (as in gold mining), Colorado. Architectural styles range

from turn- of- the- century gold dome to present- day modern, and native trees and

greenery punctuate lush lawns. The $50 million CoorsTek Center for Applied Science

and Engineering is among the newer additions to campus.

At Mines, the academics are rigorous. Core requirements include coursework

in humanities, social sciences, physical education, and, of course, science and engi-

neering, with extra doses of physics, chemistry, calculus, and differential equations.

In the first year, everyone takes the Freshman Success Seminar, an advising and

mentoring course. The required two- semester EPIC program— the acronym stands

for Engineering Practices Introductory Course— helps develop communication,

Website: www .mines .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 6,687

Undergraduates: 5,416

Male/Female: 68/32

Financial Aid: 77%

Pell Grant: 13%

Expense: Pub $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 54%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 10,886

Accepted: 58%

Enrolled: 24%

Grad in 6 Years: 81%

Returning Freshmen: 94%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (888) 446- 9489

Email Address: admissions @

mines .edu

“Most of the teachers

have industry experience

and bring that into the

classroom.”

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176 COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

teamwork, and problem- solving skills with weekly presentations and written reports.

Because of Mines’s narrow focus, the undergraduate majors— or “options,” as they’re

called— are quite strong. There’s plenty of variety, as long as you are into engineering;

programs range from geophysical, metallurgical, and petroleum to chemical, electrical,

and mechanical. Computer science, another popular choice, is the school’s fastest-

growing program. Mines offers the only B.S. degree in economics in Colorado and

has been investing more in humanities and social sciences, offering several minors in

these areas. Courses in a student’s option start in the second semester of sophomore

year, and as seniors, all students complete a capstone requirement.

Pass/fail grading is unheard of at Mines, but failing grades are not. “The courses

are hard,” says a junior, “but good time management and friends” help ease the

angst. “We are all working together,” another adds. Professors are qualified and

helpful, and adjunct professors, who work in the fields they teach, draw raves for

their practical knowledge. “Most of the teachers have industry experience and bring

that into the classroom,” a chemistry major says, but only 20 percent of undergrad-

uate classes have fewer than 20 students.

Mines supplements coursework with a required six- week summer field session,

enabling students to gain hands- on experience. About 100 undergraduates partic-

ipate in the McBride Honors Program, which includes seminars and off- campus

activities that encourage them to think differently about the implications of tech-

nology. The WISEM program provides training, mentoring, and other support for

women in science, engineering, and math. Typically only 7 to 10 percent of students

study abroad. Each year, 100 to 120 undergraduates participate in research with fac-

ulty members or on their own.

Established in 1874 to serve the emerging mining industry in the West, Mines is

a state school, making it an especially good deal for homegrown students, who com-

prise 57 percent of the undergraduate student body. Three percent hail from foreign

nations. “Most of the students would be considered nerds or geeks at other schools,”

a civil engineering major explains, “but almost everyone fits in here.” Hispanics/

Latinos represent 12 percent of the student body, Asian Americans 6 percent, Black

students just 1 percent, and multiracial students 6 percent. Students are generally

too wrapped up in academics to pay attention to political issues, according to a

physics major. Merit scholarships averaging $8,200 are available to qualified stu-

dents, and athletes may vie for more than 200 athletic scholarships.

Freshmen are required to live in the residence halls; most students move off

campus after the first year. Most buildings are co- ed, though the preponderance of

men results in a few single- sex dorms. “All the

residence halls have been refurbished and are

looking better than ever,” a sophomore says.

Options for upperclassmen include fraternity or

sorority housing, college- owned apartments, and

off- campus condos and houses. There’s only one

cafeteria, Mines Market, and a junior says, “The vegetarian options are not very good

unless you really like cereal and salad” (presumably at different meals).

There is life outside of the computer labs here. On campus, a junior says, “There

is always a club putting together an event or just students throwing parties.” Mines

has an active Greek system, with fraternities and sororities attracting 6 percent of

the men and 6 percent of the women. Rush is dry, and underage drinking is met

with consequences. CU Boulder offers livelier partying 20 minutes away. The social

scene also includes comedy shows, homecoming, and Engineering Days (E- Days)— a

three- day party with lawn games, a carnival, cardboard boat races, comedians, con-

certs, fireworks, and cheap beers. New student orientation features the traditional

“M Climb,” in which freshmen hike up Mount Zion lugging a 10- pound rock from

(continued)

Strong Programs:

Geophysical Engineering

Metallurgical and Materials

Engineering

Petroleum Engineering

Chemical and Biological

Engineering

Electrical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Computer Science

Mines offers the

only B.S. degree in

economics in Colorado

and has been investing

most popular majors.

“Without any prior

experience, any student

can get a meaningful

research job.”

Students in the

Writing Seminars

program study with

the likes of novelist

Alice McDermott.

“You have the whole city

of Baltimore and its social

scene to explore.”

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394 JUNIATA COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

them on. Women’s lacrosse is Division I as well, but the rest of the Blue Jays athletic

program competes in Division III. The women’s cross- country team has won eight

national titles since 2012, and women’s soccer also scored a national title in 2023.

Centennial Conference champs include men’s cross- country, women’s volleyball,

and field hockey. The Johns Hopkins Undergraduate Debate Council has also had

national success. Twenty- eight percent of undergraduates compete in intramurals

and club sports.

With one of the world’s premier medical schools, top science programs, and

first- rate programs in areas as diverse as writing, international studies, environmen-

tal engineering, and philosophy, Hopkins is clearly among the best schools in the

country. Students here take pride in the fact that they belong to the cream of the

academic crop. “Hopkins is a place of discovery and exploration, and it really embod-

ies creating new knowledge and expanding your horizons,” says a junior. “It’s a

place for people who like to go the extra mile and find out something new.”

Overlaps

University of

Chicago, Harvard,

MIT, Yale, UPenn,

Columbia, Cornell,

Duke

If You Apply To ›

Johns Hopkins: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Biomedical

engineering students must apply to that program. Please consult Johns Hopkins’s website for the most up- to- date informa-

tion regarding standardized test requirements.

Juniata College

1700 Moore Street, Huntingdon, PA 16652

Located in the middle of rural Pennsylvania and named after a nearby river, Juniata

boasts one of the best undergraduate science programs among liberal arts colleges.

Students are encouraged to customize their own education and to think globally.

Peace and conflict studies is a specialty. Lots of merit scholarships, but not much

diversity among students.

Set amid the ridges and valleys of central Pennsylvania, Juniata College offers stu-

dents a tantalizing mix of academic flexibility, small classes, and surprisingly solid

programs in the natural sciences. Students here chart their own course of study,

partner with faculty on research projects, and pack their bags for study abroad

opportunities around the world. “The types of students who are attracted to Juniata

are those who have a motivation to learn but are not interested in learning in the

conventional way,” says a psychology major.

Juniata’s quiet 110- acre campus features a central stand of structures reflecting

three architectural styles. The college was founded in 1876, and its landmark build-

ing, Founders Hall, is a colonial Revival structure, built of brick atop a stone founda-

tion. Halbritter Center for the Performing Arts,

Ellis Hall, and the von Liebig Center for Science

are all Classical Revival buildings, the prominent

pillars on each visible all over campus. The col-

lege also boasts a Beaux- Arts building, Carnegie

Hall, originally built as a Carnegie library in 1907

and redesigned on the interior to house the college’s art museum. Newer facilities

include the Integrated Media and Studio Arts building.

Under Juniata’s general education curriculum, all students complete coursework

Website: www .juniata .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,125

Undergraduates: 1,113

Male/Female: 47/53

Financial Aid: 89%

Pell Grant: 29%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 65%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 2,563

Accepted: 76%

Enrolled: 15%

Grad in 6 Years: 71%

Returning Freshmen: 81%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

“Compared to schools

in New England, we’re

Bible- thumpers, whereas

compared to schools in the

South, we’re socialists.”

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in five “Ways of Knowing” (creative expression, formal reasoning, humanistic

thought, social inquiry, and scientific process) and four “Self and the World” courses

(on the U.S. experience, ethical responsibility, local engagement, and global engage-

ment), as well as a first- year composition class and a first- year seminar. As juniors or

seniors, students take one Connections course, which combines two ways of know-

ing and is team- taught by faculty from different departments. Every student creates

a personal portfolio demonstrating their knowledge, skills, and personal reflections

throughout their four years, and seniors complete a capstone project.

In lieu of preset majors, Juniata has flexible Programs of Emphasis (POEs). Each

student works with two advisors to either shape an existing POE to fit their aca-

demic interests or to create an entirely new program. Approximately one- third of

students take the latter path, designing their own customized POE. Of the more

than 60 established POEs, some of the most popular are biology, psychology, com-

puter science, environmental science, and social work. The physics and chemis-

try programs are well regarded, and strong offerings in environmental science and

wildlife conservation are enhanced by the college’s field station at nearby Raystown

Lake. “Juniata has long been known as a school for the natural sciences,” con-

firms a senior. In addition, peace and conflict studies, which is one of the oldest

and most comprehensive programs of its kind in the United States, includes study

abroad opportunities and internships. Museum studies teaches students how to

curate art (and provides internships at prestigious galleries around the nation),

while the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership bestows up to $15,000 in seed

capital to budding business leaders. New offerings include criminal justice, neuro-

science, and public health.

A psychology major describes the academic atmosphere as “flexible but chal-

lenging.” Sixty- eight percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, which allows

for plenty of interaction between professors and students. The Inbound program

allows new students to spend a week on campus as part of a particular club or activ-

ity in order to “make their first few days of immersion into college life easier,” says

a student. Juniata has international exchange/study abroad agreements with col-

leges and universities in 24 countries, and 48 percent of students participate. “Juniata

makes it super affordable and possible for every student to go abroad, no matter

what they’re majoring in,” cheers a sophomore. About 55 percent of students get

involved in faculty- guided research projects. The annual Liberal Arts Symposium

features student research presentations, art exhibitions, and a Multicultural Storyfest,

where international students share stories from their home cultures.

Sixty- one percent of Juniata students hail from Pennsylvania, and 8 percent

come from foreign nations. Black students account for 5 percent of the student

body, Asian Americans 2 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 8 percent, and multiracial stu-

dents 4 percent. A junior comments that while

the school is still working to increase racial diver-

sity, it has also “put a lot more effort into making

people of color feel welcome.” Although the

campus leans left, students report that all viewpoints are represented and respected.

“Compared to schools in New England, we’re Bible- thumpers, whereas compared to

schools in the South, we’re socialists,” quips one student. Hundreds of merit schol-

arships are available, averaging $34,100, but there are no athletic scholarships. All

full- time, degree- seeking international students receive an automatic International

Friendship Award worth $2,000 per year.

Juniata requires students to live on campus for four years. “Student housing isn’t

glorious,” reasons a freshman, “but dorms are adequate.” Two living/learning com-

munities, Global Village and Eco House, are options for those interested in intercul-

tural exchange and sustainable living. For grub, Juniata provides two main dining

(continued)

Admissions: (877) 586- 4282

Email Address: admissions @

juniata .edu

Strong Programs:

Physics

Chemistry

Environmental Science

Wildlife Conservation

Peace and Conflict Studies

Museum Studies

Biology

Psychology

Students enjoy a

number of traditions,

including Lobsterfest

at the start of the

year, Madrigal Dinner

during the holidays,

and Mountain Day.

“Juniata has long been

known as a school for the

natural sciences.”

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396 KALAMAZOO COLLEGE

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facilities, one buffet- style and one where meals are made to order, as well as several

à la carte stops around campus. Students say their rural location feels safe. A junior

reports that the SPoT (Safe Place to Talk), which “does a lot of programs to promote

safe sex and understanding of sexual assault and mental health awareness,” is prov-

ing to be an effective source of support.

Social life is mostly on campus, and activities include live bands, trivia contests,

dinners, and dances. “There are tons of events hosted by clubs all the time,” says a

chemistry major. Students of legal age may drink on campus, but students say the

drinking and party culture is low- key, especially with no Greek life. Students enjoy

a number of traditions, including Lobsterfest at the start of the year, Madrigal Dinner

during the holidays, and Mountain Day, on which classes are canceled for the day

and students attend outdoor activities at Raystown Lake (“Food, carnival games,

kayaking, Slip ’N Slides, and the president’s dog with a GoPro on— it is a great time,”

says a junior). Each year, students also take part in the “storming of the arch,” in

which “freshmen attempt to run into an arch defended by the rugby teams,” explains

a student. Huntingdon (population 7,000) provides the basic necessities, as well as

several restaurants, a movie theater, and a Mayfest street fair. Community service

is popular, as are road trips to Penn State (40 minutes away), Baltimore, Philadelphia,

and Pittsburgh.

The Juniata Eagles’ 22 varsity teams compete in Division III. The women’s volley-

ball team has dominated the Landmark Conference, winning 15 consecutive cham-

pionships and the 2022 national title. Men’s volleyball and women’s field hockey

are strong too. Students are also active in club and intramural sports; the men’s and

women’s rugby clubs and intramural basketball are among the most favored.

Although students sometimes complain about the limitations of attending a

small college in a small town, most seem excited to be part of such an inviting aca-

demic institution. Those seeking “big football games, raging frat parties, and a

vibrant urban setting” should look elsewhere, a senior observes. However, “if you

are more interested in an intensive and personal academic environment with an

extremely tight- knit and supportive community, then Juniata is the place for you.”

The Center for

Entrepreneurial

Leadership bestows

up to $15,000 in seed

capital to budding

business leaders.

Overlaps

Allegheny,

Susquehanna,

Ursinus,

Elizabethtown,

Muhlenberg,

College of Wooster,

Dickinson,

University of

Pittsburgh, Penn

State

If You Apply To ›

Juniata: Early decision, early action I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application

with supplement.

Kalamazoo College

1200 Academy Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49006

Kalamazoo College is a small liberal arts school that opens up the world to its

students. A majority of students study abroad thanks to the ingenious K-Plan, a

curriculum that allows them to study abroad for up to three academic terms. And

if you need an extra boost to round out that résumé, there is an extensive career

development program.

Kalamazoo College (also known as K) may be a small school in America’s heart-

land, but it pays to send the majority of students abroad during their four

years— making it a launching pad to the world. In addition to international edu-

cation, the school’s K-Plan emphasizes teaching, internships, and independent,

Website: www .kzoo .edu

Location: Small City

Private

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faculty- guided research. Students are exposed to a demanding academic schedule

and high expectations from faculty, but they say it’s well worth the challenge.

“Students at K really care about their studies,” says an international and area stud-

ies major. “We enjoy writing, we enjoy discussion, and we enjoy critical thinking

and inquiry.”

Life on K’s wooded, 60- acre campus centers on the Quad, a green lawn where

students ponder their destinies and play ultimate Frisbee with equal ease. With its

rolling hills, Georgian architecture, and brick- laid streets, the campus has the quaint

look more typical of historic New England than of the nearby city of Kalamazoo,

which, with surrounding communities, has 261,000 residents. Newer campus facil-

ities include a $18 million LEED- certified natatorium and a 30,000- square- foot fit-

ness and wellness center.

Founded in 1833 and formerly associated with the American Baptist Churches,

Kalamazoo is the oldest private college in Michigan. Many first- years begin the

year with a LandSea trip, which features a choice between three weeks of climb-

ing, rappelling, canoeing, and backpacking in

the mountains of the Adirondacks or a six- day

camping experience at Pretty Camp Lake out-

side of Kalamazoo. By the end, they’re con-

vinced they can survive anything, including the rigors of a Kalamazoo College

education and the long Michigan winters. Once on campus, they pursue a liberal

arts curriculum that includes language proficiency, a first- year writing seminar,

sophomore and senior seminars, as well as a senior integrated project— directed

research, a creative piece, or a traditional thesis— basically anything that caps off

each student’s education in some meaningful way.

After their sophomore year, most of K’s undergrads meet life’s challenges with

suitcase in hand, studying wherever their heart takes them, often for the regular tui-

tion price. The college offers three- , six- , and nine- month immersive study abroad

programs that are available to all students, regardless of major; almost all credit

earned during study abroad transfers back to K. “Kalamazoo College does study

abroad so well that it seems ridiculous not to take advantage of this opportunity,”

cheers a biology major. “They make it financially accessible and ensure that you

won’t fall behind by going abroad.” Students study abroad via 50- plus programs in

more than 25 countries.

Back on campus, students say the accelerated pace of K’s three 10- week terms

make for “a fast- paced environment that keeps me on my toes,” says a computer

science major. The natural sciences are exceptionally good, and interdisciplin-

ary programs in international and area studies, community and global health,

and critical ethnic studies are also strengths. Psychology, biology, business,

English, and biochemistry are the most popular majors, and students praise K’s

language departments. Professors, rated highly for their enthusiasm and acces-

sibility, give students lots of individual attention. “Professors in your intended

field will guide you through your four years here at K,” attests a math major.

Most students participate in career development programs like internships,

“Hornet Huddles” with K alumni, and K-Trek trips to visit industries around

the country.

“K students are social justice– oriented, academically focused, a bit hippie, and

overall a very supportive community,” muses a junior. Sixty- five percent of stu-

dents come from Michigan and 5 percent from foreign nations. The student body

is 16 percent Hispanic/Latino, 6 percent Asian American, 5 percent Black, and

6 percent multiracial. Many students crave more diversity on campus. The admin-

istration says it is continuing efforts to educate students on intercultural under-

standing, and the campus has a decidedly progressive tone. Merit scholarships

(continued)

Total Enrollment: 1,174

Undergraduates: 1,174

Male/Female: 44/56

Financial Aid: 98%

Pell Grant: 30%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 51%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 3,564

Accepted: 80%

Enrolled: 13%

Grad in 6 Years: 80%

Returning Freshmen: 87%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 253- 3602

Email Address: admission @

kzoo .edu

Strong Programs:

Natural Sciences

International and Area Studies

Community and Global Health

Critical Ethnic Studies

Biology

Chemistry

Psychology

Business

“Professors in your intended

field will guide you through

your four years here.”

The first- year LandSea

trip features a choice

between three weeks

of adventure in the

Adirondacks or a

six- day camping

experience at Pretty

Camp Lake.

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398 KALAMAZOO COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

averaging $36,000 are available to qualified students. Athletic scholarships are

not available.

Sixty- three percent of students live on campus. “The dorms are not huge but are

big enough to live comfortably with another person,” an economics and political

science major explains. With so many students away each term thanks to the study

abroad program, a certain instability pervades all

activities, from athletics to student government

to living groups in the co- ed residence halls,

where suites hold one to six students. Dorms are

divided by class year, and three dorms are avail-

able for first- year students. Dining services get

mixed reviews, but students give good ratings to campus safety. While there are no

Greek organizations, 10 living/learning houses offer a more community- oriented

atmosphere, including family- style dinners. For those who tire of campus life, “Off-

campus housing is both cheap and located close to campus, so it is a popular option,”

reports a sophomore.

K’s campus is always buzzing with social activities like movies, concerts, speakers,

and other events, which one student raves “make going to parties [seem] like a total

bore!” Parties, often hosted by athletic teams in off- campus houses, are limited to the

weekends, and students agree that the atmosphere is pressure- free when it comes to

alcohol. Students look forward to the Monte Carlo casino night, when “our student

center is completely transformed into a casino with the professors as the dealers,”

lauds a junior. In spring, the Day of Gracious Living happens when, without prior

warning, classes are canceled and students can choose to head to the beach, work on

volunteer projects, or relax on campus. (One popular T-shirt: “The end of learning is

gracious living.”) A majority of students get involved in the community through

service- learning courses and student- led cocurricular activities, working with local

partners to address issues such as neighborhood development, sustainability, prison

reform, and migrant rights. “The local music and art scenes are huge in Kalamazoo,

with many free performances all year and Art Hop every month,” says a senior. In

addition to the typical collection of restaurants, theaters, and bars, K students benefit

from the physical proximity of Western Michigan University, where they may use

the library or attend cultural events. Students “also can take a bus or train to other

cities: Chicago, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Detroit, etc.,” notes a senior.

For those who equate college with athletics, K has something to offer— even if it’s

not nationally televised games or tens of thousands of screaming fans. With 18 var-

sity teams, the Kalamazoo Hornets have a long- standing rivalry with Hope College,

culminating in the football teams’ annual competition for the Wooden Shoes

trophy. The outstanding men’s tennis team has won the Michigan Intercollegiate

Athletic Association (MIAA) conference championship 88 (!) times, most recently

in 2023. Baseball and women’s tennis also won conference championships in 2023.

K offers intramural volleyball, soccer, and basketball, as well as several club sports.

Kalamazoo College is “very intimate and there is a gratitude surrounding the

institution,” says a senior. K’s academic terms may be fast- paced and the workload

demanding, but students are given the flexibility to pursue their interests through

individualized projects and off- campus exploration. The result, says a senior, is a

student body defined by “open- minded, global citizens.”

“Kalamazoo College does

study abroad so well that

it seems ridiculous not

to take advantage of this

opportunity.”

A majority of students

get involved in the

community through

service- learning

courses and student-

led cocurricular

activities.

Overlaps

Hope, College of

Wooster, Albion,

University of

Michigan, Michigan

State, U of I at

Urbana– Champaign,

Grand Valley State,

Western Michigan

If You Apply To ›

Kalamazoo: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application

with optional writing supplement.

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UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS 399

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

University of Kansas

1502 Iowa Street, Lawrence, KS 66045

Often overlooked because of its heartland location, KU has the sophistication of the

leading Big Ten universities but is much easier to get into. Stereotypes of Kansas to

the contrary, Lawrence is not flat as a pancake. Offers a solid slate of professional

schools and an honors program that is among the nation’s best. Jayhawk basketball

is legendary.

Despite its conservative Midwest location, the University of Kansas is a welcoming

oasis of progressive activism and tolerance. The school courts extremely dedicated

students with an impressive honors program that has helped raise its academic pro-

file. With sound academics and extracurriculars, winning athletics, and a stellar

social life, the University of Kansas has a bounty of opportunities for motivated

Jayhawks. “We put a strong emphasis on research and individualism, which is awe-

some for students to break out of the set curriculum and explore what they are pas-

sionate about,” says an international business major.

The 1,000- acre campus is set atop Mount Oread— a hill that was once a cross-

ing point for pioneer wagon trains— and spreads out on rolling green hills over-

looking river valleys. Many of the buildings are made of indigenous Kansas

limestone and are famed for their red roofs. But

the real beauty of the campus lies in its land-

scape, particularly the breathtaking autumn

foliage. The Dole Institute of Politics is home to

one of the world’s largest congressional archives

and a World Trade Center memorial. A massive

$350 million expansion of the campus’s Central

District features an integrated sciences building, a student union, a 550- bed resi-

dence hall, and a 700- bed apartment complex, among other facilities. KU’s impres-

sive new Jayhawk Welcome Center houses the KU admissions office and hosts

interactive exhibits for visitors.

Prospective KU freshmen may apply to the schools of Architecture & Design,

Business, Engineering, Journalism and Mass Communications, Music, and

Professional Studies, and to the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. Those not admit-

ted to one of the professional schools will automatically be considered for admis-

sion to the College, where 49 percent of the undergraduate population is enrolled.

Students wishing to enter the schools of Education and Human Sciences, Health

Professions, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Social Welfare must pass prerequisite courses

and meet the schools’ entry requirements. As part of their degrees, all KU under-

graduates must complete the university- wide KU Core curriculum, which spans the

entire undergraduate experience and culminates in a required capstone experience

that varies by major.

Some of the most notable undergraduate programs offered by KU’s 14 schools

include architecture, design, education, geology, journalism, music, social work,

and health- related majors. The School of Journalism and Mass Communications

perpetuates the legacy of famed journalist William Allen White, and the School of

Engineering has significantly expanded its resources and facilities, most recently

with the opening of the interdisciplinary Earth, Energy, and Environment Center.

Psychology, journalism, finance, nursing, and marketing are the most popular

majors. Accelerated bachelor’s/master’s programs in several fields, ranging from

environmental studies/urban planning to history of art, allow students to earn two

Website: www .ku .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 22,234

Undergraduates: 16,729

Male/Female: 47/53

Financial Aid: 75%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pub $ $

Student Loans: 50%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 16,204

Accepted: 88%

Enrolled: 28%

Grad in 6 Years: 67%

Returning Freshmen: 85%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (785) 864- 3911

Email Address: adm @ ku .edu

Strong Programs:

Architecture

Design

Education

Geology

Journalism

Music

Social Work

Engineering

Business

“We put a strong

emphasis on research

and individualism, which

is awesome for students

to . . . explore what they are

passionate about.”

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400 UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

degrees in five years. Citing budget issues, the university has eliminated its long-

standing undergraduate humanities program.

“The academic climate is very flexible and supportive,” says a microbiology

major. “It’s rigorous but not to the point of being unbearable.” Forty- three percent

of all undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students, and while teaching assis-

tants do teach some classes, students often have

access to leading professors early on. “My calcu-

lus course freshman year was taught by the head

of the math department— showing that there

isn’t a time at KU where your academics and

instruction are not made a top priority,” says an architecture major. The Office of

Student Affairs, run by its own vice provost, wins praise for its academic advising

and for its help with internships, disability services, and extracurriculars. Career

services receive high ratings too.

Incoming freshmen can apply to the highly selective University Honors

Program, which provides more than 1,600 academically motivated students with

in- depth courses, specialized advising, early enrollment, and financial support for

opportunities like research projects. The study abroad programs get raves from stu-

dents, who may travel through 165 faculty- led, internship, direct enrollment, and

reciprocal exchange programs in more than 70 countries.

“Proud and passionate. These two words invoke to me what it means to be a

Jayhawk,” says one student. Sixty- four percent of undergrads are from Kansas, and

20 percent are fellow Midwesterners, while 4 percent are international. Black stu-

dents account for 4 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 10 percent, Asian Americans 6 per-

cent, and multiracial students 6 percent. Politically, “We are definitely a blue dot in

a red state,” says one student, but conservative views are well represented on campus

too. KU grants four- year renewable merit scholarships to eligible freshmen, and ath-

letes vie for more than 300 full and partial scholarships in 18 varsity sports. For Pell-

eligible students who also meet certain academic criteria, the KU Pell Advantage

program provides a combination of scholarships and grants to fund students’ tui-

tion and fees.

Twenty- five percent of undergraduates live in KU residence halls, scholarship

halls, or on- campus apartments. Most students live off campus in Lawrence apart-

ments, which are considered expensive only by Kansas standards. “Scholarship halls

are a popular and affordable option, where about

50 students live together in a massive house,”

advises a senior. Students take their meals at 16

dining locations across campus, ranging from

residential dining halls to retail cafés, coffee-

houses, and snack shops. “The food is a good

mix of different cuisines and is also healthy and nutritious,” says a junior. One stu-

dent explains, “KU SafeRide provides transportation for late at night, while Lawrence

police and university police constantly patrol the streets.” Additionally, the Sexual

Assault Prevention and Education Center conducts training on consent and

bystander intervention.

The Greek system, which attracts 18 percent of the men and 25 percent of the

women, is a conspicuous force in the social scene but doesn’t control it. According

to a behavioral neuroscience major, “KU is definitely a Midwest party school,” but a

human biology major cautions, “The university is a dry campus and maintains this

through room checks and the campus police.” About 500 organized groups keep

things lively; other activities include movies, poetry readings, game nights, cultural

events, and concerts. Scholarship halls, residence halls, and other student groups

also sponsor large campus parties and events. The university’s bus system is much

“There isn’t a time at KU

where your academics and

instruction are not made a

top priority.”

The Office of Student

Affairs, run by its own

vice provost, wins

praise for its academic

advising and for its

help with internships,

disability services,

and extracurriculars.

“Scholarship halls are a

popular and affordable

option, where about 50

students live together in a

massive house.”

KU’s impressive new

Jayhawk Welcome

Center houses the

KU admissions office

and hosts interactive

exhibits for visitors.

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UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY 401

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

appreciated by tenderfeet, especially because that great big hill seems to double in

size during the cold, windy winters.

With its myriad boutiques, restaurants, and bars and its active music scene,

Lawrence is a favored destination for off- campus fun, and students also enjoy get-

ting involved in the community through KU’s Center for Community Outreach.

“Lawrence is the American college town,” asserts one enthusiastic Jayhawk. “Period.”

Topeka, the state capital, and Kansas City are each less than an hour’s drive, and the

area is also served by Amtrak.

KU varsity teams— the only ones in the nation that carry the name Jayhawks,

who were antislavery pioneers in the 1850s— compete in the rough- and- tumble Big

12 Conference. The men’s basketball team has earned more conference titles than

any other Big 12 team; they defeated North Carolina for the 2022 national title.

James Naismith, who invented basketball, was KU’s first coach. Women’s volleyball,

men’s and women’s golf, women’s tennis, and men’s and women’s track and field

are also competitive. Students take part in about 30 sports clubs and 30 intramural

sports, the most popular of which is— you guessed it— basketball. Sand volleyball,

soccer, and tennis are other student favorites.

Jayhawk traditions run deep. The school year kicks off with Hawk Week,

the official welcome for new students. To demonstrate their loyalty to the

Jayhawks, thousands of students show up for the first men’s and women’s bas-

ketball practices of the season. This nocturnal tradition is lovingly labeled “Late

Night in the Phog”— an allusion to the fieldhouse named after the late, great

basketball coach Forrest “Phog” Allen. The traditional “Rock Chalk Jayhawk”

KU cheer and steam whistle signaling the end of every class period are enough

to bring a pang of nostalgia to the heart of even the most grizzled Kansas alum.

“Anyone who becomes a Jayhawk joins something so much bigger than them-

selves,” opines one student.

With more than 200 undergraduate fields of study and a history that dates to 1865,

Kansas’s reputation (the nonbasketball one) continues to grow. Comprehensive study

abroad programs, a distinctive honors program, and a robust sense of school spirit are

just some of the reasons students choose to be Jayhawks. And as a satisfied sophomore

points out, “Once you become a Jayhawk, you can feel the family and support every-

where on campus. We really care about one another and make sure our flock is ready

to fly.”

The men’s basketball

team has earned more

conference titles than

any other Big 12 team.

Overlaps

Indiana University,

University of

Missouri, University

of Oregon,

Michigan State,

SUNY– Buffalo,

Kansas State,

University

of Arkansas,

University of

Nebraska– Lincoln

If You Apply To ›

Kansas: Early action, rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Apply

to particular school or program.

University of Kentucky

100 Funkhouser Building, Lexington, KY 40506

The state of Kentucky is better known for horses and hoops than for higher education,

but its flagship public university, located in the heart of the Bluegrass, is working

to change that. The University of Kentucky is always a championship contender on

the basketball court, and its programs in business, engineering, health, and equine

sciences are just as competitive. About a third of students come from out of state,

mostly from Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, and Georgia.

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402 UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

While the University of Kentucky Wildcats grab the most headlines, the university’s

claims to excellence stretch into outstanding medical and premedical programs, sci-

entific research involving both professors and students, and a social calendar packed

with enough Southern tradition to make even

the most composed debutante’s head spin. Over

the last decade, UK has undergone a more than

$2.3 billion campus transformation, much of it

focused on student life, including more than $450 million in high- tech residence

halls and the Gatton Student Center, complete with dining and a state- of- the- art

fitness center. UK is a national leader in efforts to support first- generation college

students and has established a dedicated living/learning community for them.

The University of Kentucky was founded in 1865 as the state’s land grant uni-

versity, and its campus contains a mixture of old and new, with traditional redbrick

buildings that date back to the late 1890s and modern designs using contemporary

glass and concrete. The well- maintained grounds are organized around comfortable

parklike spaces influenced by Frederick Law Olmsted’s design. The campus contains

a vast amount of mature trees and lawns set in a natural arrangement of open spaces,

typical of the great land grant universities. Of course, UK’s location in the heart of

one of the finest horse- breeding areas in the world makes it a natural place for the

Gluck Equine Research Center, a headquarters for research into horse diseases.

UK’s general education program, known as the UK Core, comprises the equiva-

lent of 30 credit hours in 10 course areas that address four broad learning outcomes.

Freshmen are encouraged but not required to take an academic orientation class

called UK101, designed to help them adjust to

college life. Students not ready to declare a major

may test the academic waters in “Exploratory

Programs” in a particular college. Business, engi-

neering, and health, especially nursing and premed programs, tend to be UK’s stron-

gest fields, but several unique programs stand out. The equine science and

management major prepares students for a wide range of careers in the horse indus-

try by teaching both science and business concepts. Students studying pre- vet and

animal sciences at UK will find coveted slots reserved for them at Auburn University

and Tuskegee in the advanced veterinary medicine program, at in- state tuition rates.

UK’s Gaines Center for the Humanities is unusual in its study of public higher edu-

cation, and the Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce is one

of the smallest yet most respected schools of its type in the country. The Lewis

Honors College is housed in a dedicated quad of residence halls.

The academic climate is laid- back, but students shouldn’t expect easy As. Thirty-

six percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, but lower- level “monster” science

classes are common, and one student describes them as “extremely large and not at

all personalized.” When it comes time for course registration, a marketing major

says students “have difficulty if they are freshmen because most of them have to

take the same classes, and sometimes they don’t get the right times— or the classes

at all.” It’s hard to complete the engineering, health, business, and architecture pro-

grams in four years, students say. Term- time internships, known as co- ops, also

complicate— but enliven— the picture. The university has bolstered its advising ser-

vices in order to provide more personalized attention and to better coordinate career

and academic services. Teaching assistants and full professors teach about the same

number of freshman classes, and students praise UK’s faculty. “I’ve had many pro-

fessors whose lectures made me excited to go to class,” says a communication sci-

ences and disorders major. Seventeen percent of students study abroad in more than

200 available programs, including 52 that are directed by UK faculty.

“UK students are typically self- assured, slightly competitive, and outgoing,” says

“I’ve had many professors

whose lectures made me

excited to go to class.”

Website: www .uky .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 27,533

Undergraduates: 20,744

Male/Female: 42/58

Financial Aid: 78%

Pell Grant: 22%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 49%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 21,923

Accepted: 95%

Enrolled: 29%

Grad in 6 Years: 69%

Returning Freshmen: 85%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (859) 257- 2000

Email Address: admissions @

uky .edu

Strong Programs:

Business

Engineering

Nursing

Premed

Equine Science and

Management

Prevet

Education

International Studies

“UK students are typically

self- assured, slightly

competitive, and outgoing.”

Among the highlights

of any student’s

career at UK are

two one- month

periods when students

spend afternoons

at Keeneland Race

Track enjoying the

tradition of Kentucky

horse racing.

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Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

a psychology major, and according to a classmate, “Southern hospitality abounds.”

UK undergraduates hail from all 120 Kentucky counties and more than 100 coun-

tries; 31 percent are from out of state and 2 percent are international. The student

body is predominantly white; Black students account for just 7 percent of under-

grads, Hispanics/Latinos 6 percent, Asian Americans 4 percent, and multiracial stu-

dents 4 percent. Diverse political views are represented on campus, but a senior

says UK is “not really a politically charged university.” Merit scholarships averaging

$9,300 are offered to qualified students, as are more than 500 athletic scholarships.

The university has modernized all its residence halls and opened 14 new ones in

recent years. Dorms are located on two parts of the campus— north and central— and

offer suite- style rooms, with no more than four students sharing a bathroom.

“Students get really nice amenities, like Tempur- Pedic mattresses, granite counter-

tops, two sinks, and full- size closets,” reports a student. The only downside of such

plush accommodations, students say, is the cost. Students are not required to live on

campus, but 33 percent do so. Dining services get good reviews, and a communica-

tion major says, “There are so many options from sit- down, buffet- style to specialty

cafés to fast food,” as well as “worry- free zones”

for students with dietary restrictions. The Green

Dot Bystander Intervention program, designed

to prevent sexual assault and domestic violence on college campuses, originated at

the University of Kentucky and has been adopted by hundreds of colleges and uni-

versities across the country.

On campus, students enjoy movies, presentations, seminars, concerts, and ath-

letic events. Twenty- three percent of Kentucky men and 31 percent of the women

go Greek, and fraternities and sororities offer numerous on- campus social activi-

ties, as well as opportunities for volunteer work in the community. Students are

not allowed to have alcohol on campus, except for special events that have been

registered with the university. Students collaborate to mount one of the largest

student- run philanthropies anywhere: DanceBlue. The yearlong fund- raising effort

culminates in a 24- hour, no- sleeping dance marathon that benefits a local chil-

dren’s cancer clinic and pediatric cancer research. Among the highlights of any

student’s career at UK are two one- month periods— one in the fall, one in the

spring— when students spend afternoons at Keeneland Race Track enjoying the tra-

dition of Kentucky horse racing.

Despite the limited diversity on campus, Lexington abounds with a multitude

of ethnic eateries, as well as theaters, shops, and nightspots. The downtown area is

within walking distance of campus. “Downtown Lexington has a great social scene,

so lots of students will venture off campus for concerts, restaurants, festivals, farm-

ers markets, etc.,” says a senior. When it’s time for a road trip, UK students head to

Cincinnati or Louisville (one hour away) or to Atlanta or Chicago (six hours).

The best road- trip destinations, of course, are anywhere there’s a steamy, noisy

gym and a basketball team ready to do battle with UK’s always- solid Wildcats. Home

games at the legendary Rupp Arena— what one student calls “a magical experience”—

are consistently packed by the Big Blue Nation. “In Kentucky, basketball is like a

second religion,” agrees another true- blue Wildcat fan. Football and women’s bas-

ketball draw crowds too. The school fields 21 Division I teams in all, most of which

compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Intramurals range from soccer and

basketball leagues to dodgeball tournaments and hot- shot contests.

“The culture of UK is unique because it has the competitive energy of the SEC,

but it’s not an overly Greek- focused campus and it does a great job of supporting

every interest,” comments a senior. Indeed, students here find plenty of solid oppor-

tunities, from specialties in equine and animal science to support for first- generation

students to serious school pride. Whether it’s screaming themselves hoarse for five

“In Kentucky, basketball is

like a second religion.”

UK is a national

leader in efforts

to support first-

generation college

students.

The equine science

and management

major prepares

students for a wide

range of careers in

the horse industry by

teaching both science

and business concepts.

Overlaps

Indiana University,

University of

Louisville, Miami

University (OH),

Ohio State,

University of

Tennessee

Knoxville, West

Virginia University

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404 KENYON COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

guys hitting the hardwood or for four- legged equines racing around an oval, for

many students, the mix of collegiate craziness and old- world Southern hospitality

found at the University of Kentucky is just what they want.

If You Apply To ›

Kentucky: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Please consult Kentucky’s website for the most

up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Kenyon College

Ransom Hall, Gambier, OH 43022

Kenyon is a vintage liberal arts college plunked down in the middle of the Ohio

countryside. More mainstream than Oberlin, more intense than Denison, and

more selective than Wooster, Kenyon is best known for English and a small but

distinguished drama program. Located in a tiny village where faculty and staff are

the main residents. Swimming and diving teams make huge splashes.

The oldest private college in Ohio, Kenyon College provides students with an acces-

sible and pure liberal arts experience that rivals those of leading East Coast insti-

tutions. Students here are proud of what they see as setting Kenyon apart from

other liberal arts colleges. “One thing that unites us all is that we are passionate

about something,” explains one student. “Whether it be drama, physics, writing,

activism— Kenyon students care!” Though highly selective, the college continues to

build on its reputation as a supportive academic environment.

Kenyon’s 1,000- acre campus sits on a hillside overlooking a scenic view of river,

woods, and fields in a secluded village of roughly 2,500 residents. Old Kenyon, the

college’s original building, dating from 1826, is

said to be the first collegiate Gothic building in

America, and the campus is on the National

a 500- acre nature preserve, featuring hiking trails and extensive perennial gardens.

The 98,000- square- foot, LEED Gold– certified Chalmers Library opened in 2021.

The hallmark of Kenyon’s academic philosophy is a fierce devotion to the liberal

arts and sciences. While there is no core curriculum at Kenyon, all students must

have proficiency in a second language and complete requirements in quantitative

reasoning. A bevy of academic counselors, including upperclassmen and professors,

help ensure that freshmen stay on the right track. The culmination of each student’s

coursework at Kenyon is the senior exercise, which may take the form of a compre-

hensive examination, an integrative paper, a research project, a performance, or

some combination of these. Approximately 12 percent of students graduate with

departmental honors.

English, a nationally renowned subject at Kenyon since the 1930s, is the

most popular major, and it, along with the department of dance, drama, and film

(which turned out the likes of Allison Janney and Paul Newman), sets the tone

of campus life. Kenyon is the home of the Kenyon Review, a prestigious literary

quarterly that offers internships to a few lucky students, and is a school about

which alum E. L. Doctorow said, “Poetry is what we did at Kenyon, the way at

Ohio State they played football.” John Green, the giant of young adult fiction,

Website: www .kenyon .edu

Location: Rural

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,877

Undergraduates: 1,877

Male/Female: 44/56

Financial Aid: 46%

Pell Grant: 11%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 39%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 8,116

Accepted: 34%

Enrolled: 19%

Grad in 6 Years: 86%

Returning Freshmen: 91%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 848- 2468

Email Address: admissions @

kenyon .edu

Strong Programs:

English

Drama

Film

Modern Languages and

Literatures

Physics

“One thing that unites us all

is that we are passionate

about something.”

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KENYON COLLEGE 405

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

is also an alum. Economics, psychology, political science, and biology round out

the list of popular majors, and the modern languages and literatures, physics, and

mathematics and statistics departments are also strong. Political science draws

many undecided majors with its yearlong introductory class, Quest for Justice. The

Integrated Program in Humane Studies concentration, the school’s oldest interdis-

ciplinary program, is also popular. Opportunities for independent study abound,

such as a unique farming program that places students on nearby farms for field-

work each week. Preprofessional opportunities include 3– 2 engineering programs

with several universities and high access to graduate programs in law, business,

and medicine.

“Despite the academic rigor of many classes and departments at Kenyon, I have

never felt competitive with my fellow students,” says a psychology major. Classes

are small, and even the larger introductory courses use a two- part format in which

students meet for lectures one week and split up for discussion sections with the

professor the next. “Kenyon’s professors are active researchers and exemplary teach-

ers,” says a math major. “They are passionate about their fields, and they love get-

ting their students excited about the material as well.” Many profs live close to

campus, which enhances the close- knit environment. On- campus summer research

scholarships in the sciences and humanities provide opportunities for collaborative

research for aspiring scientists, scholars, and doctors. Forty- three percent of Kenyon

students study abroad, choosing from nearly 200 programs in 50 countries, includ-

ing Kenyon- sponsored programs in England and Italy.

Twelve percent of students are Ohioans, one- third hail from New England

and Mid- Atlantic states, and 12 percent come from abroad. Black students account

for 3 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 8 percent, Asian Americans

5 percent, and multiracial students 5 percent, and the college is actively working to

increase diversity. The liberal, friendly student body is politically engaged, especially

when it comes to social justice issues, and a sophomore says, “Students at Kenyon

thrive on open conversation and do not silence opinions that contradict theirs.”

Kenyon meets the full demonstrated financial need of admitted students and awards

merit scholarships averaging $15,900, but only 11 percent of incoming freshmen

qualify for Pell Grants. Newman’s Own Foundation Scholarships guarantee a loan-

free education for 25 selected students with the greatest need who bring the quali-

ties of creativity, community service, and leadership to Kenyon.

All students live on campus, with housing guaranteed for four years. Freshmen

start in five dorms at the north end of campus, and most move to the south end the

next year. Renovations and expansions are always

in the works, but students say some accommoda-

tions still need improving. Rooms are selected via

a sometimes harrowing housing lottery. Everyone,

including those in the apartments with kitchens, must buy the unlimited meal plan.

“Kenyon is in an isolated area of Ohio and is generally very safe,” a senior says.

Given the school’s rural location, social life happens on campus, with more

than 150 student clubs and a Greek system that draws 8 percent of both men and

women. The frats throw lively parties that are open to all, and a senior says, “Every

student performance— sports games, public presentations, music recitals, art

shows— is incredibly well attended.” With its deli, market, coffeehouse, inn, restau-

rant, couple of bars, bank, and post office, Gambier is at least quaint, even if it is a

bit of a culture shock for urbanites. Students enjoy buying real maple syrup, fresh

bread, and cheese from Amish farmers with stands on the main street on Saturdays.

There are a few more options 10 minutes away in Mount Vernon, to which the col-

lege runs a daytime shuttle bus, and two small ski areas lie near campus. Columbus

and Ohio State are a 45- minute drive south, and those seeking adventure farther

(continued)

Physics

Mathematics and Statistics

Political Science

Economics

Kenyon is the home of

the Kenyon Review,

a prestigious literary

quarterly that offers

internships to a few

lucky students.

“Kenyon’s professors are

active researchers and

exemplary teachers.”

Gambier is at least

quaint, even if it is

a bit of a culture

shock for urbanites.

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406 KNOX COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

from home sometimes road- trip to Cleveland (home of the Rock and Roll Hall of

Fame), Cincinnati, Chicago, or even Canada.

Kenyon remains defined by its traditions, the most hallowed of which is

renewed each year as incoming freshmen sing college songs to the rest of the

community from the steps of Rosse Hall. Departing seniors sing the same songs at

graduation. On Matriculation Day each October, after a formal ceremony, fresh-

men sign a book that contains the signatures of virtually every Kenyon student

since the early 1800s. Summer Sendoff is an outdoor concert celebrating the end

of spring semester classes.

Kenyon’s varsity teams are known as the Owls. Men’s and women’s tennis and

soccer are consistently competitive in the North Coast Athletic Conference, but the

flagship sport is definitely swimming. Kenyon’s

swimming and diving teams dominate Division

III competition, with the men’s team having

won 34 national titles and the women’s team

claiming 24, most recently in 2022. The annual

hockey game against Denison and soccer games

against Ohio Wesleyan draw large crowds. Club and intramural sports attract

30 percent of the students and sponsor everything from ultimate Frisbee to ball-

room dance.

Kenyon students are liberal, global thinkers who are as devoted to one another

as they are to their studies and their traditions. The Kenyon Review, the legend of

alumnus Paul Newman, and national- championship swimming give the college a

distinctive identity. As one sociology major advises, “It can be tough at times deal-

ing with the location or the intense academics, but if students embrace Kenyon, it is

a quirky school that can be extremely rewarding to attend.”

“Every student performance—

sports games, public

presentations, music

recitals, art shows— is

incredibly well attended.”

Overlaps

Swarthmore,

Williams, Hamilton,

Oberlin, Grinnell,

Wesleyan,

Macalester, Colby

If You Apply To ›

Kenyon: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Please consult Kenyon’s website for the

most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Knox College

2 East South Street, Galesburg, IL 61401

This friendly and progressive Illinois college was among the first in the nation to admit

Black students and women. Offers a strong creative writing program, exceptional

sciences, and a real- world atmosphere. More mainstream than Beloit and Grinnell

and smaller than Illinois Wesleyan. With a hugely diverse student body of about

1,100, Knox offers an unusual degree of personal attention, even by the standards of

small colleges.

With the unconventional Prairie Fire as its emblem, Knox College has long made

a name for itself by breaking away from the conventions of the day. Founded by

abolitionists in 1837 as the Knox Manual Labor College, this liberal arts college has

a tradition of debate that extends beyond the Lincoln– Douglas event that occurred

here in 1858. And through a warm, supportive academic community and emphasis

on “putting knowledge into practice through real- world experiences,” the college

continues to foster a strong sense of individualism.

Website: www .knox .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,049

Undergraduates: 1,049

Male/Female: 44/56

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Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Located in the heart of the Midwest— midway between Chicago and St. Louis—

the 82- acre campus has spacious, tree- lined lawns and a dynamic mixture of archi-

tecture that reflects the 164- year span of construction dates of existing buildings. Old

Main, constructed in 1857, is a National Historic Landmark and the only building

remaining from the 1858 Lincoln– Douglas debates. Recent campus projects include

the Whitcomb Art Center, which features a variety of art studios and workshops,

and major renovations to the Umbeck Math and Science Center.

Students say the academic relationships at Knox are infused with a spirit of coop-

eration and equality. Knox operates on an honor system that allows students to take

tests unproctored in any public area. Beyond the classroom, students, faculty, and

administrators make decisions on boards together,

each with identical voting power. As part of

Knox’s Blaze a Trail first- year experience program,

incoming students participate in new student ori-

entation and take First- Year Preceptorial, a small

seminar taught by professors from across the college that emphasizes critical analysis,

writing, and class discussion. They may also join an optional living/learning commu-

nity associated with their Preceptorial course.

All Knox students apply their learning to a real- world experience of their choice,

such as independent research or creative work, an internship, community service,

or study abroad, which serves as a capstone experience in their junior or senior

year. What’s more, through Knox’s Power of Experience program, every student

receives funding of at least $2,000 to support these experiences. The general educa-

tion curriculum, known as Elements, spans coursework in the arts, sciences, human-

ities, and social sciences, through which students learn how to communicate in a

second language, in numbers and symbols, and with people of diverse backgrounds.

Creative writing and biology are among the school’s strongest programs; the col-

lege’s biannual literary magazine, Catch, has won several national and international

awards, while biology attracts lots of research grant money. Other popular majors

include psychology, business and management, and anthropology and sociology,

and the theater and computer science departments are also notable. Knox offers 3– 2

or 3– 4 programs in engineering, nursing, medical technology, law, and architecture,

as well as a cooperative program with the George Washington University School of

Medicine and Health Sciences. Newer majors include journalism, public policy, and

data science, and a minor in Spanish translation and interpretation is now available.

Knox’s three- term system packs a great deal of studying into a short period, but

students are only required to take three courses per term, which keeps the course-

work “very manageable,” according to a biology major. Seventy- six percent of classes

have fewer than 20 students, and a political science and economics major says, “Due

to how intimate our campus is, the quality of instruction is very meaningful and

sincere.” Immersive terms give students the option of engaging in a hands- on explo-

ration of a single field of study for an entire term; available subjects include clinical

psychology, studio art, repertory theater, busi-

ness start- ups, and fieldwork and community-

building at the off- campus Green Oaks prairie

restoration site. Knox also offers more than 100

study abroad and off- campus programs around the world, and about half of students

participate. Students praise Knox’s academic advising system for helping them nav-

igate the multitude of options.

“Knox students are inquisitive and like to challenge themselves,” comments

an art history major. “Everyone picks up new hobbies and passions at Knox.” Fifty-

three percent of students come from Illinois, and an impressive 18 percent hail from

foreign countries. While Knox is not a hotbed of political protest, students here tend

(continued)

Financial Aid: 96%

Pell Grant: 29%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 63%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 2,996

Accepted: 73%

Enrolled: 11%

Grad in 6 Years: 74%

Returning Freshmen: 82%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 678- KNOX

Email Address: admission @

knox .edu

Strong Programs:

Creative Writing

Biology

Theater

Computer Science

Psychology

Business and Management

Anthropology and Sociology

“Due to how intimate our

campus is, the quality

of instruction is very

meaningful and sincere.”

“Everyone picks up new

hobbies and passions at

Knox.”

Knox operates on an

honor system that

allows students to

take tests unproctored

in any public area.

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408 KNOX COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

to be progressive and engaged in current events, and a commitment to diversity is

evident across campus. Black students make up 6 percent of the student body, Asian

Americans 4 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 13 percent, and multiracial students 6 per-

cent. Socioeconomically, 29 percent of freshmen qualify for Pell Grants, and a quar-

ter of undergrads are first- generation college students. Merit scholarships averaging

$28,900 are available, but athletic scholarships are not.

Eighty- six percent of students reside in campus digs. Most freshmen live in

single- sex suites, and a senior describes the dorms as “nothing to write home about”

but adds that the apartments and townhouses for upperclassmen are more comfort-

able. Those who move off campus must obtain permission, which can be difficult.

Dining services get good reviews, especially because the staff will “work with stu-

dents to create new recipes and bring new products to Knox,” explains a French and

history major. Students rate campus safety as strong.

Four percent of men and 1 percent of women go Greek, and weekends are filled

with on- campus club activities, cultural events, and fraternity parties, although all

parties must be registered and alcohol- free. Students warn that the administration is

quick to deal with underage drinkers. Annual events include the Lincoln Fest music

festival and International Fair, but a junior says Flunk Day is “the crown jewel of all

Knox traditions.” At 7:00 on a spring morning, Old Main’s bell rings, seniors bang

pots and pans, and classes are canceled to make way for lawn games, inflatables,

food trucks, karaoke, and other rollicking festivities.

Galesburg is a small Midwestern railroad town, and the Amtrak station makes

travel easy and relatively cheap. At one time, this city of about 30,000 was a center

of abolitionism, and the honorary degree that the college bestowed on then-

presidential candidate Abraham Lincoln was his

first. For those interested in service, Knox was

the first college in the country to establish an

official Peace Corps Preparatory Program. Now,

Knox students devote more than 80,000 hours of

service to the community every year. “Galesburg

has its fair share of locally owned businesses, restaurants, bars, etc., as well as lots

of green space,” reports a sophomore. Nearby Lake Storey offers boating, water

slides, and nature trails, and students looking for more excitement can travel to

Peoria, about 50 miles southeast, or Chicago, about 200 miles northeast.

Prairie Fire athletics’ 20 Division III teams generate a reasonable degree of enthusi-

asm, boosted by the school mascot, a fox named— you guessed it— Blaze. The men’s and

women’s soccer teams are strong, both having recently earned Midwest Conference titles.

Every fall, the football team endures lots of “hard Knox” against archrival Monmouth to

bring home the highly prized Bronze Turkey trophy, a throwback to the time when the

game was played on Thanksgiving Day. About a quarter of students participate in intra-

mural and club sports; basketball, volleyball, and ultimate Frisbee are the most popular.

As a Knox student, “You go to school in a small town in the Midwest, where the

winters are bitter and the fall and spring are all too short,” muses a junior. “But

despite these challenges, Knox students focus their pride on their academics and the

quality of their campus experience.” The result is a close- knit community, an empha-

sis on hands- on learning, and an open- minded atmosphere fostered by Knox’s nota-

bly diverse student body.

Knox was the first

college in the country

to establish an

official Peace Corps

Preparatory Program.

“Galesburg has its fair

share of locally owned

businesses, restaurants,

bars, etc., as well as lots of

green space.”

Overlaps

Beloit, Lawrence,

Kalamazoo,

Earlham, Cornell

College, Augustana

(IL), Grinnell,

Illinois Wesleyan

If You Apply To ›

Knox: Early decision, early action I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with

supplement.

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Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Geographically close to Lehigh but closer kin to Colgate and Hamilton and boasting

a strong global orientation, including for engineering. Compare to Bucknell, Union,

Swarthmore, and Trinity (CT), which also offer engineering. Attracts relatively preppy,

athletic students who work hard and play hard. One of the smallest institutions to

play Division I sports.

Lafayette College has become one of the small elite liberal arts colleges with a huge

presence abroad. A national leader in undergraduate faculty- mentored research,

it ranks among the top colleges in study abroad participation, and its liberal arts

curriculum mixes nicely with engineering in a small college atmosphere. Says one

satisfied junior, “Lafayette is a place that believes that we can be leaders, scholars,

athletes, and activists and that we don’t have to choose just one.”

Founded in 1826 and named for the famous Marquis, Lafayette is situated on

College Hill, a stately hill in Easton, Pennsylvania, just an hour and a half west of

New York City and even closer to Philadelphia.

The campus has an eclectic blend of architectural

styles and more than 125 species of trees. Open,

flexible learning and workspaces are a common

theme in many Lafayette buildings, including

the Skillman Library and the Acopian Engineering Center, which stays open all

night and on weekends. The $75 million, high- tech Rockwell Integrated Sciences

Center is the largest capital project in the school’s history.

A Common Course of Study includes a first- year seminar and courses in lab

science, social sciences, mathematics, humanities, writing, global and multicul-

tural proficiency, and a foreign language. “Classes are tough, and you have to

put in the effort to succeed in most,” reports a neuroscience major, but the atmo-

sphere is “not competitive.” Economics, mechanical engineering, neuroscience,

government and law, and biology are among the most popular majors; nearly

half of Lafayette’s students major in STEM fields. Students in the four- year engi-

neering and international studies dual- degree program earn two degrees in an

engineering field and foreign language of their choice in addition to completing

an international internship or study abroad experience. Programs in visual and

performing arts have grown with the opening of the Williams Art Campus. The

Dyer Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship provides hands- on, multidisci-

plinary opportunities for collaboration in the liberal arts and engineering. Sixty-

two percent of classes have fewer than 20 students. “Lectures are engaging and

not only do students learn about the content of the course, but professors provide

connections to how this information becomes relevant outside of the classroom,”

says a sophomore. The EXCEL program pays students who take research positions

with faculty.

Students can pack their bags for study abroad programs offered in more than

50 countries. Options include several semester- long, faculty- led programs as well

as short- term, faculty- led programs for credit during the January and May interim

terms. Even engineering students are encouraged to explore foreign cultures; pro-

grams led by Lafayette faculty in Bonn, Germany, and Madrid, Spain, allow them to

study abroad for a semester while maintaining normal progress toward their degrees.

A government and law major comments, “There’s a strong alumni network, and the

Career Center does good work connecting students with alumni.”

Website: www .lafayette .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,712

Undergraduates: 2,712

Male/Female: 50/50

Financial Aid: 31%

Pell Grant: 11%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 39%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 10,500

Accepted: 34%

Enrolled: 21%

Grad in 6 Years: 89%

Returning Freshmen: 90%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (610) 330- 5100

Email Address: admissions @

lafayette .edu

Strong Programs:

Economics

Mechanical Engineering

Neuroscience

Government and Law

Biology

Engineering and International

Studies

Visual and Performing Arts

“Lafayette is a place that

believes that we can be

leaders, scholars, athletes,

and activists.”

Lafayette College

Easton, PA 18042

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410 LAFAYETTE COLLEGE

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“Students here are very outgoing, and are very active around campus,” says

a biology major, and a mechanical engineering major adds, “There is plenty of

support for students of marginalized identities.” Seventy- three percent of stu-

dents are from out of state, and 8 percent are drawn from abroad. Black students

account for 5 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 8 percent, Asian

Americans 4 percent, and multiracial students 4 percent. A fairly diverse range of

political views are represented on campus. Around 20 to 40 incoming freshmen

receive merit- based Marquis Scholarships worth half tuition, while 10 to 15 top

achievers are awarded full- tuition Marquis Fellowships. About 100 to 150 smaller

merit- based Marquis scholarships are available as well, and athletes vie for over

200 scholarships in 10 of the school’s 23 varsity sports. Lafayette guarantees to

meet the full demonstrated need of admitted students, and it eliminates loans for

students from families with annual incomes less than $150,000. Just 11 percent

of freshmen qualify for Pell Grants, but administrators say ratcheting up that

number is a priority.

Ninety- three percent of students live on campus, and housing is guaranteed for

all four years. Possibilities include Greek houses as well as independent dormitories

and college- owned apartments with a variety of living and eating arrangements.

Housing is chosen via a lottery system, but most

get into the dorm of their choice. Ruef and South

College are more social, while Watson Hall and

Kirby House are quieter, students say. Campus

dining facilities get mostly positive reviews. One student remarks, “Lafayette does

not ignore the fact that sexual assault happens on campus, but rather works to con-

tinuously bring up the issue in order to put a stop to it.”

Greek life attracts 24 percent of the men and 30 percent of the women. All

sororities and some fraternities are dry, at least on campus; most parties occur off

campus. “It is possible to have a rich social life without participating in Greek life,”

confides a junior. The arts program brings a range of performers to campus, and the

most important nonathletic event of the year is Lafchella, a music and food festival

featuring student bands and popular musical acts. The 1,000 Nights dance for fresh-

men and the 100 Nights dance for seniors mark the number of days remaining until

graduation.

For students with cars or those willing to hop a bus or train, the bright lights of

Philadelphia and New York beckon on weekends; for a change of pace, there is also

hiking the Appalachian Trail. Blue- collar Easton “can entertain you for 4 years, but

you probably wouldn’t want to live here the rest of your life,” admits a senior. Adds

a neuroscience major, “Downtown Easton is beautiful and has great food if students

are able to spend a bit of money.” Students look forward to Easton’s annual

garlic and bacon festivals. From College Hill and Downtown to the South Side, the

city also offers plenty of opportunities for volunteer work in schools, prisons, reha-

bilitation centers, hospitals, and environmental sites under the auspices of Lafayette’s

Landis Center for Community Engagement.

Division I sports add flavor to the Lafayette experience. The Leopards play in

the Patriot League, and the field hockey, men’s soccer, and men’s basketball teams

regularly vie for conference titles. The annual football game against nearby Lehigh is

intense— dating to 1884, it’s the most- played rivalry in college football. An extensive

recreational program draws 18 percent of the students, buoyed by 33 club sports,

several intramurals, and the massive Kirby Sports Center.

Students seeking close contact with professors, research opportunities, and a

global outlook— and who aren’t afraid of some serious study— might take a look at

Lafayette. A freshman shares this anecdote: “I was once studying in a lounge area

when a student I never met before saw my textbooks, explained that he had taken

“It is possible to have a

rich social life without

participating in Greek life.”

Students in the four-

year engineering and

international studies

dual- degree program

earn degrees in an

engineering field and

a foreign language.

Students look

forward to Easton’s

annual garlic and

bacon festivals.

Overlaps

Bucknell, Colgate,

Union, Wellesley,

Bowdoin, Villanova,

Fordham, Lehigh

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LAKE FOREST COLLEGE 411

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the course the year before, and proceeded to give me his number in case I had any

questions throughout the semester.” For those who desire a tight- knit, supportive

community, that just about says it all.

If You Apply To ›

Lafayette: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Please consult Lafayette’s website for

the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Lake Forest College

555 North Sheridan Road, Lake Forest, IL 60045

A small, selective, private college in the Chicago area, Lake Forest generally attracts

friendly, middle- of- the- road students. In the exclusive town from which the school

takes its name, students can babysit for corporate CEOs at night and get internships

at their corporations during the day. Large numbers of Foresters also study abroad.

Located just 30 miles north of the downtown Loop, Lake Forest College offers excel-

lent programs in business, communication, and psychology, along with abundant

opportunities for study abroad and professional internships at Chicagoland organi-

zations such as the Chicago Blackhawks, the Chicago Board of Trade, and the Shedd

Aquarium. Academic improvements at Lake Forest are drawing attention, and the

school is shedding its image as a haven for spoiled rich kids; applications are up,

and the school is attracting high- caliber students from across the nation and 80

countries.

Lake Forest was founded by Presbyterians in 1857 as an alternative to Methodist-

oriented Northwestern University. With its mixture of century- old Gothic and

modern glass structures, the college’s 107- acre campus is storybook beautiful.

Located on Chicago’s North Shore in a wealthy,

quiet suburb of 19,000, the campus has three

contiguous parts divided by natural wooded

ravines: North, Middle, and South. Each has a

mix of residence halls and academic buildings.

The state- of- the- art Donnelley and Lee Library offers a 24- hour computer lab,

“smart” classrooms, and collaborative workspaces. Brown Hall, housing the social

science, math, computer science, and data science departments, has benefitted from

a $20 million expansion and renovation.

General education requirements include the First- Year Studies Program, featur-

ing “very small classes designed to help freshmen integrate into the college,” says an

English major. “These courses are writing intensive and offer a variety of opportuni-

ties, including trips to Chicago for plays and museum visits.” Students also complete

two credits in each of three liberal arts areas (humanities, social and natural sciences,

and math), two cultural diversity courses, and a senior studies capstone course.

Students say Lake Forest’s best and most popular majors include business,

finance, communication, biology, neuroscience, psychology, and English. An entre-

preneurship and innovation minor has proven popular as well. Accelerated and

dual- degree programs— including three- year degree programs in philosophy and

communication and dual- degree programs in law, engineering, pharmacy, account-

ing, and international studies— are available. Academic self- starters benefit from the

Website: www .lakeforest .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,696

Undergraduates: 1,683

Male/Female: 42/58

Financial Aid: 95%

Pell Grant: 30%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 60%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 4,665

Accepted: 60%

Enrolled: 16%

Grad in 6 Years: 78%

Returning Freshmen: 85%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (847) 735- 5000

Email Address: admissions @

lakeforest .edu

Strong Programs:

Business

Communication

Psychology

Finance

Biology

Neuroscience

Entrepreneurship and

Innovation

“The small class sizes

allow for a lot of group

discussion, group projects,

and peer mentoring.”

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412 LAKE FOREST COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

self- designed major program, which allows undergrads to create their own majors

outside the boundaries of traditional disciplines.

The academic climate at Lake Forest encourages collaboration. “The small

class sizes allow for a lot of group discussion, group projects, and peer mentoring,”

says a biology major. “It’s not uncommon to find an entire class sitting in a study

room going over material for an upcoming exam.” Foresters especially enjoy the

large doses of individual attention that they receive from the faculty. “The pro-

fessors here know my name, they know what I struggle with, and they know my

strengths,” confirms a psychology major. The Career Advancement Center offers

symposia, workshops, and résumé clinics, and students benefit from the college’s

proximity to downtown Chicago, just an hour away by train. Many pursue term-

time internships in the city’s business district, known as the Loop, or at nonprofits

and other organizations in surrounding communities.

Study abroad is integral to the Lake Forest experience, and 40 percent of stu-

dents travel via more than 200 programs offered in approximately 70 nations.

Students can apply their financial aid packages to approved semester- long programs.

Each year, about 40 students become Richter Apprentice Scholars, living together,

working in a 10- week paid research assistantship during the summer before their

sophomore year, and taking part in a weekly student/faculty colloquium. “Absolutely

try to do research with your professors,” urges a communication major. “It is the

most rewarding thing you can get involved with.”

Sixty- four percent of Lake Forest students hail from the Land of Lincoln, and

15 percent come from abroad. According to a sophomore, Foresters are usually

“open- minded, amiable, and able to get along with others.” Black students make up

3 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos

20 percent, Asian Americans 6 percent, and mul-

tiracial students 3 percent. Students say political

debate is usually mild. One- third of the student

body graduated from private high schools, but competitive financial aid packages

are helping to bring more students from less- advantaged backgrounds to Lake Forest.

The proportion of Pell- eligible freshmen is about 30 percent. The college awards

numerous merit scholarships averaging $30,800 but does not offer athletic awards.

Sixty- nine percent of students live in the dorms, which they are required to do

through their junior year. An English major says, “Different halls attract different

people. I preferred living in the older buildings because they felt homier than the new

buildings, which felt more like a hotel.” Housing selection for upperclassmen is prior-

itized by seniority and GPA, “so there’s a definite incentive to do well in your classes,”

says a senior. A fair number of students commute from home, and many seniors

choose to stay on campus due to high rents in the surrounding area. Everybody eats

in the central dining hall, where food is prepared to order at pizza, pasta, stir- fry, and

other stations, and helpings are unlimited. A senior says, “We have regular program-

ming events and student panels dedicated to educating the campus on sexual assault.”

Most social life is campus- based. Some students complain that, as a communica-

tion major explains, “the social environment can be similar to high school because

the college is so small” and students tend to form cliques. The Campus Entertainment

Committee mixes things up by booking movies, comedians, and big- name bands,

while the Garrick Players put on several productions per year. The school’s three

fraternities and five sororities attract 6 percent of the men and 7 percent of the

women, respectively, and though they don’t have houses, their parties are open to

all. Students say the party culture is relatively low- key, and underage students caught

drinking on campus are strictly penalized. Everyone enjoys the semiformal Winter

Ball, the annual Forester Day of Service, the Spring Concert, and the Drag Show lip-

synch contest planned by PRIDE.

The Career

Advancement Center

offers symposia,

workshops, and

résumé clinics.

“The town is actually in a

forest, so the whole place

is beautiful.”

Housing selection

for upperclassmen

is prioritized by

seniority and GPA.

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LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY 413

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

The town of Lake Forest is wealthy and mostly residential, and one student

says, “The town is actually in a forest, so the whole place is beautiful, and it feels

like you live tucked away in a safe haven.” There’s a commuter train station five

minutes away, and the Lake Michigan beach is just as close. The college also offers

a weekend shuttle service to local malls and movie theaters, though a car is helpful.

Several student organizations are devoted to community service, and Greek orga-

nizations sponsor blood drives, bake sales, and car washes. One program sends stu-

dents to the Appalachian Mountains in Virginia and Tennessee every spring break

to help local townspeople repair substandard housing.

Division III Foresters athletics have begun to draw more attention from stu-

dents. Men’s basketball, women’s tennis, and softball have been competitive in the

Midwest Conference in recent years. Club and intramural sports programs draw

39 percent of students; lacrosse, rugby, and indoor soccer are especially popular.

Although Lake Forest’s small size may feel confining to some, most students

appreciate the college’s collaborative atmosphere, increasing diversity, and healthy

school pride. “Lake Forest takes very good care of its students by providing challeng-

ing academics, comfortable living, lots of entertainment, and a small- town feel with

access to a big city,” concludes a senior. “What more could anyone want?”

Overlaps

Knox, Beloit,

Cornell College,

Luther, Augustana

(IL), U of I at

Chicago, Loyola

University Chicago,

DePaul

If You Apply To ›

Lake Forest: Early decision I and II, early action I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional (test- optional applicants

must have an admissions interview). Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Lawrence University

711 East Boldt Way, Appleton, WI 54911

One of three small colleges in the nation that combine the liberal arts with a first- rate

music conservatory (Bard and Oberlin are the others), and music of all kinds shapes

the campus culture. Lawrence is half the size of Oberlin and comparable to Beloit

and Grinnell, though Lawrence’s personality is more mainstream than the others.

Occupies a scenic bluff in northeastern Wisconsin.

Lawrence University is an unpretentious school that can appeal to both the left

and right side of students’ brains. For those with an analytical bent, there is

Lawrence’s uncommon physics program. More creative types can take advantage

of the school’s renowned Conservatory of Music. “I came to Lawrence because

I found no other school where I could seriously study music and academics,”

says a senior. It’s this eclectic, individualized approach to learning that attracts

interested and interesting students from around the world. “Lawrence is, to me,

founded on the idea that academics can be rigorous while also fun,” muses a gov-

ernment major.

Lawrence’s campus sits on a wooded bluff above the Fox River, perfect for long

walks, jogging, or simply meditating underneath the trees. The pristine 88- acre

campus reflects several architectural styles of the past 175 years, including Classical

Revival, 1920s Georgian- inspired, and 1950s and 1960s institutional, unified by their

limestone color. The award- winning Wriston Art Center and the Conservatory’s

Shattuck Hall of Music (both designed by Lawrence graduates) bring contemporary

architectural touches to the campus.

Website: www .lawrence .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,394

Undergraduates: 1,394

Male/Female: 46/54

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 24%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 57%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 2,943

Accepted: 72%

Enrolled: 17%

Grad in 6 Years: 78%

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414 LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

One of the first coeducational colleges established in the nation, Lawrence was

founded in 1847 to educate German immigrants and Native Americans and was

named after an early benefactor. While coeducation was shocking enough, innova-

tors at Lawrence didn’t stop there. Nearly

80 years ago, administrators introduced the First-

Year Studies program, a required two- term course

that focuses primarily on the great works of art,

music, science, and literature of both Western

and non- Western origin and gives all incoming

students a shared intellectual experience. General education requirements at

Lawrence include First- Year Studies, distribution requirements, and diversity, for-

eign language, and writing- intensive courses. All seniors— in all degree programs— are

required to produce a final project demonstrating proficiency in their major field of

study. As a linguistics major explains, the senior project means that “while everyone

is working on something different, the whole senior class is engaged in meaningful

discussions and exposed to unique challenges.”

At the school’s Conservatory of Music, the instrument collection includes an

1815 Broadwood piano identical to Beethoven’s own Broadwood and a Guarneri

violin. There are first- rate jazz ensembles along with classical and world music

programs. The college offers a bachelor of music degree within its liberal arts

environment, and students may opt to complete a five- year, double- degree pro-

gram to earn both a bachelor of music and a bachelor of arts in another field.

“Music is the unifying theme at Lawrence,” says one student. “Almost everybody

plays it or studies it or likes to listen to it and talk about it.” Economics is the

most popular major, followed by biology, psychology, English, and government.

The highly regarded physics department offers 3– 2 engineering options with

Columbia, Rensselaer, and WashU in St. Louis. Cooperative degrees in forestry

and environmental studies, law, occupational therapy, and public health are also

offered with such institutions as Duke, Marquette, and the Medical College of

Wisconsin. Newer minors include health and society, statistics and data science,

and creative writing.

Small classes— 80 percent have fewer than 20 students— make it “easy to con-

nect and work closely with professors for a more personalized and thorough learning

experience,” says a geology major. Because of the three- term calendar, the academic

climate is fast- paced and intense but also “extremely collaborative,” a sophomore

says. “As long as you stay on top of reading and notes, it is not overwhelming.”

Students are encouraged to spend at least one term of their college career off

campus, and 40 percent of undergrads do so. The university is known for its London

Centre, which allows students to take classes “across the pond” while taking advan-

tage of the city’s many cultural activities. Other

off- campus programs include a Francophone

seminar in Dakar, Senegal, and a marine biology

term in the Cayman Islands. In all, more than 50

international programs are available in more than 25 countries. About 65 percent of

students participate in research opportunities, especially those in the sciences. The

Lawrence University Research Fellows program pairs qualified students with

Lawrence faculty or with alumni who are conducting research at tier- one universi-

ties across the country for 10- week research assistantships during the summer.

A senior describes Lawrentians as “forward- thinking, caring, and quirky.”

Twenty- four percent of students hail from Wisconsin, and another quarter come

from Illinois and Minnesota. At 12 percent, the international population is sizable

and represents more than 45 countries. Black students make up 4 percent of the stu-

dent body, Asian Americans 5 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 11 percent, and multiracial

“Music is the unifying

theme at Lawrence. Almost

everybody plays it or

studies it or likes to listen

to it and talk about it.”

(continued)

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 227- 0982

Email Address: admissions @

lawrence .edu

Strong Programs:

Music

Physics

Economics

Biology

Psychology

English

Government

The First- Year Studies

program focuses

primarily on the great

works of art, music,

science, and literature

of both Western and

non- Western origin.

“[Students are] forward-

thinking, caring, and

quirky.”

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LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY 415

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

students 5 percent. The political climate on campus is liberal and usually “calm,”

according to a sophomore. There are no athletic scholarships, but top achievers vie

for merit scholarships averaging $31,900 each.

All but 5 percent of students live on campus, as four- year residency is required

with few exceptions. “There are tons of options for housing: dorms, theme houses,

group houses, lofts, etc.,” explains a junior. On- campus students have a choice of

meal plans and report that the food is diverse, healthy, and friendly to those with

dietary restrictions. “Some of our produce comes from a student- run garden right

across the street from the dining hall,” says one student. In an effort to enhance

campus safety, all on- campus parties hosted by student groups must be attended by

at least one member who has been trained in bystander intervention.

Social life at Lawrence is mostly campus- based and as varied and eclectic as the

students. Greek life attracts a modest 8 percent of the men and 6 percent of the

women; students say the party culture tends to be laid- back. “Lawrence students

aren’t the kind to party every weekend, but we’re also not the kind to never party at

all,” opines a sophomore. Thanks to the Conservatory, students can almost always

count on there being some kind of concert or performance on any given day. The

Winter Carnival and President’s Ball, held in January, and LU- aroo, a student-

organized music festival in the spring, are favorite annual traditions. The student-

run Great Midwest Trivia Contest takes place during January each year; held since

1966, it’s the longest- running trivia contest in the nation. Octoberfest is also a big

weekend event, held in conjunction with the city of Appleton, which draws people

in from nearby cities.

Relations between Lawrence and Appleton are good. “The town is safe and has

lots to do,” says a student, including “cafés, restaurants, shops, nightlife, performing

arts, and farmers markets.” Downtown Appleton is just one block from campus, but

the nearest grocery store is a five- minute drive;

the school provides regular shuttles to help stu-

dents get around. Volunteerism is popular, and

students regularly take part in activities such as

tutoring at local schools. The best road trips are

to Milwaukee (two hours), Green Bay (half an hour), and Chicago (four hours).

Weekend seminars are held at Björklunden, the college’s 441- acre estate on the

shores of Lake Michigan.

And what would a Midwest fall Saturday be without football? The Division III

Lawrence Vikings draw good crowds almost every weekend. Baseball and men’s and

women’s ice hockey, cross- country, and basketball are among the most competi-

tive teams. The sparkling recreation center helps students fend off midwinter blues.

Participating in a rousing game of intramural broomball, a variation of ice hockey

played in shoes with brooms and kickballs, is a must for students, even if all you do

is watch. Ultimate Frisbee is a popular club sport.

With an outstanding liberal arts curriculum, knowledgeable and caring faculty,

an administration that treats students like adults, and a charming country setting,

Lawrence University is easily one of the better little- known schools in the country.

“I’ve always felt that this school is a hidden gem,” remarks a film studies major. And

for students with a musical ear, Lawrence’s symphony of offerings strikes just the

right chord.

Octoberfest is a big

weekend event, held

in conjunction with

the city of Appleton,

which draws people

in from nearby cities.

“Some of our produce

comes from a student- run

garden right across the

street from the dining hall.”

Overlaps

St. Olaf, Macalester,

Oberlin, DePauw,

Grinnell, Ripon,

Beloit, Knox

If You Apply To ›

Lawrence: Early decision, early action I and II, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application

with supplement. Music applicants must audition and complete additional requirements.

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416 LEHIGH UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Built on the powerful combination of business, engineering, and the humanities,

Lehigh occupies a middle ground between techie havens such as Drexel and

Rensselaer and liberal arts/engineering institutions such as Bucknell and Union. By

graduation, students are primed for the global job market. Hillside campus means

that students get plenty of exercise. A wrestling powerhouse.

From the College of Arts and Sciences to the College of Business, Lehigh University

combines the academic resources of a large research university with the collegial

atmosphere of a much smaller institution. Since Lehigh’s founding in 1865, much

of its reputation has rested on its consistently strong engineering program, and the

school has invested millions of dollars in recent years to enhance critical academic

programs such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, bioscience, and optoelectronics.

With the university’s robust approach to experiential learning, students are well

prepared for life after college. Says one engineering major, “Lehigh students have

the know- how to jump right into the workforce and tackle any challenges that they

may face.”

Grand old oaks shade the buildings on Lehigh’s 1,600- acre campus, which is

tucked into the side of an eastern Pennsylvania mountain. The university spreads out

over three contiguous campuses: the main Asa Packer Campus, named for Lehigh’s

businessman founder; the Goodman Campus,

named for a donor; and the Mountaintop Campus,

which formerly housed the research laboratory of

now- defunct Bethlehem Steel. Architectural styles

range from ivy- covered collegiate Gothic, includ-

ing the historic Linderman Library, built in 1878,

to modern glass and steel. Several construction projects were recently completed,

including the $145 million Health, Science, and Technology Building (the university’s

largest facility, at 190,000 square feet) and the Business Innovation Building, which

expands the existing Rauch Business Center with flexible, tech- supported classrooms

and project spaces.

Distribution requirements are divided into four domains— the mathematical sci-

ences, the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the arts and humanities. First- years

take an Evolution Seminar that focuses on the transition to college life. Additionally,

some degrees include a mandatory internship or capstone project. Finance, mechan-

ical engineering, industrial and systems engineering, and accounting are the most

popular majors. Lehigh is big on connecting traditionally separate disciplines, so

students interested in interdisciplinary study will find a wealth of options, including

majors in arts and engineering, computer science and business, and environmental

engineering and minors in engineering leadership and sustainable development. “I

love the flexibility that I have had with my major, and it is really cool that I have

been able to study both engineering and psychology,” says a senior. The College of

Health, offering undergraduate degrees in community and global health and pop-

ulation health, enrolled its first class in fall 2020, offering such degrees as a dental

program with the University of Pennsylvania and an optometry program with the

State University of New York.

Lehigh prides itself on offering innovative special programs. The Technical

Entrepreneurship Capstone program brings engineering, business, and arts stu-

dents together to design and make products for sponsoring companies. The IDEAS

Website: www .lehigh .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 6,603

Undergraduates: 5,550

Male/Female: 54/46

Financial Aid: 60%

Pell Grant: 19%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 45%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 15,163

Accepted: 37%

Enrolled: 27%

Grad in 6 Years: 91%

Returning Freshmen: 91%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (610) 758- 3100

Email Address: admissions @

lehigh .edu

Strong Programs:

Arts and Engineering

Computer Science and

Business

Environmental Engineering

Integrated Business and

Engineering

Finance

Mechanical Engineering

Industrial and Systems

Engineering

Accounting

“I love the flexibility that I

have had with my major,

[being] able to study

both engineering and

psychology.”

Lehigh University

27 Memorial Drive West, Bethlehem, PA 18015

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LEHIGH UNIVERSITY 417

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

(Integrated Degree in Engineering, Arts, and Sciences) and Integrated Business and

Engineering programs offer four- year honors curricula that allow students to blend

two focus areas into a single course of study. Lehigh’s Office of Creative Inquiry spon-

sors several interdisciplinary initiatives, among them the Mountaintop program,

which gives roughly 175 students a chance to work in teams with faculty mentors

on cutting- edge projects during the summer. Recent Mountaintop projects include a

Stormwater Smart Campus, Zero Hunger College, and 3- D Concrete Printing. “Take

part in the Mountaintop research over the summer,” urges a psychology major. “It’s

really fun to be on campus then, and the programs are really cool.” Co- ops allow

students to spend eight months working for a major- related company— and getting

paid to do so— while still graduating in four years. Students participate in more

than 250 study abroad options offered in over 60 countries. Faculty- led programs

during winter and summer breaks are available in about a dozen countries, includ-

ing China, the Czech Republic, and Ghana.

Lehigh students are ambitious, and many pursue double majors and multiple

extracurriculars, but the atmosphere is by no means cutthroat. “From group projects

to late- night study groups in Linderman Library, I have always been able to find a

classmate to help me in a variety of subjects,”

says a journalism major. Forty- five percent of

undergraduate courses enroll fewer than 20 stu-

dents, and a finance and economics major says,

“Professors at Lehigh are as good as they get when

it comes to professional experience and the research they are involved in.” Students

praise the wide range of services made available to them, including career counseling.

“Career services is especially good at bringing large numbers of employers at a time

to campus,” says one junior. “Our placement numbers speak for themselves.”

According to an accounting major, “Everybody here is determined to succeed

and have a good time doing it.” Twenty- seven percent of Lehigh’s students come

from Pennsylvania, and many others hail from other Northeastern states; 8 percent

come from more than 30 foreign countries. Black students account for 5 percent

of the population, Hispanics/Latinos 10 percent, Asian Americans 10 percent, and

multiracial students 4 percent. As for the political atmosphere, a mechanical engi-

neering major reports, “Political opinions are rarely expressed on campus.” Merit

scholarships averaging $16,300 are awarded annually, and athletes vie for 200 schol-

arships in 25 sports.

Sixty- one percent of Lehigh students live on campus; first- and second- year

students are required to do so. Accommodations are “either very homey or

modern,” says a sophomore. Many upperclassmen choose to live in apartment-

style dorms, Greek houses, and off- campus apartments. Campus dining receives

above- average reviews for taste and variety. Students note that the Office of Gender

Violence Education and Support has done much to educate the campus commu-

nity, including rallies and prevention- awareness training, and a chemical engi-

neering major comments, “In general, campus is really safe as long as you use basic

city smarts.”

An active Greek scene (18 percent of the men join fraternities and 26 percent of

the women belong to sororities) fuels the campus social life. “Students who live off

campus often host parties, and it creates a really

great social scene,” says one student. Although

students agree that a drinking and party culture

does exist, according to a finance major, “There

isn’t pressure from anyone to become involved

in those activities.” Plenty of on- campus social options are available too, says a

business information systems major: “Lehigh After Dark events are always a huge

Co- ops allow students

to spend eight months

working for a major-

related company,

while still graduating

in four years.

“Career services is

especially good at

bringing large numbers of

employers . . . to campus.”

Many upperclassmen

choose to live in

apartment- style

dorms, Greek houses,

and off- campus

apartments.

“Students who live off

campus often host parties,

and it creates a really great

social scene.”

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418 LEWIS & CLARK COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

hit and range from midnight breakfast bars and a massive carnival to massage ther-

apy sessions and bingo nights.” Favorite traditions include the Founder’s Day cele-

bration as well as bed races, the Turkey Trot, and other spirit activities during the

week leading up to the big football game against Lafayette. “Personally, I love

wingo,” cheers a sophomore, “which is wings and bingo that’s held once every

two weeks.” Locally and nationally, students volunteer roughly 65,000 hours

each year.

The bustling campus has helped revive Bethlehem, a once- great steel town in

the heart of the Lehigh Valley. “Bethlehem is a hidden gem,” says a junior. “There

is always something to do, whether that’s seeing a show at the Steel Stacks or grab-

bing a bite to eat downtown.” Students look forward to the city’s Musikfest music

festival in early August. For those with wheels, Philadelphia is 50 miles to the south

and New York City is 75 miles to the east. Skiers will appreciate the close proximity

of the Poconos in the winter, while sun worshippers can enjoy the nearby Jersey

Shore in the early fall and late spring.

The Division I Lehigh Mountain Hawks field a number of competitive teams.

Lehigh’s wrestling program is a perennial powerhouse, having brought home

numerous Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association championships. Women’s

softball is a recent Patriot League champion; other solid programs include field

hockey and men’s golf, cross- country, and lacrosse. Fans flock to the annual Lehigh

versus Lafayette football game, which was first played in 1884 and is the longest-

standing rivalry in college football. “LeLaf is huge!” cheers a junior. About 35 per-

cent of students participate in the extensive intramural and club sports programs.

The Goodman Campus provides first- class practice and playing facilities for Lehigh’s

varsity and recreational sports teams alike.

Lehigh students proudly juggle rigorous classes and a packed extracurricular cal-

endar in an environment that is well- balanced rather than intense. “Lehigh is in the

Goldilocks zone,” explains an economics major. “It is just small enough that it is

easy to find and form a comfortable and intimate community, but big enough that

everyone can explore any and all of their interests.”

Favorite traditions

include the Founder’s

Day celebration as

well as bed races and

the Turkey Trot.

Overlaps

Tulane, William

& Mary,

Northeastern,

Wake Forest,

Boston College,

Villanova, Bucknell,

Rutgers

If You Apply To ›

Lehigh: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Apply to particular colleges. Please con-

sult Lehigh’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Lewis & Clark College

Portland, OR 97219

The West Coast’s leader in international and study abroad programs. Politically

liberal, but not as far out as crosstown neighbor Reed. With Mount Hood visible

in the distance (sometimes), there is a wealth of outdoor possibilities. Located in

suburban Portland, within easy reach of the bustle of downtown.

The 19th- century explorers Lewis and Clark struck out from Middle America to find

where the trail ended, and their travels took them to Portland, a lush, green paradise

by the Willamette River. The college that bears the explorers’ names encourages stu-

dents to explore too. Since establishing its first overseas study programs in 1962, the

college has sent thousands of students around the world to gain global perspectives

Website: www .lclark .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Private

Total Enrollment: 3,601

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LEWIS & CLARK COLLEGE 419

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

in their fields of study. Back on campus, opportunities for academic exploration,

research, and urban adventures abound. Without a doubt, Lewis & Clark students

receive, as one junior puts it, “an excellent, hands- on education.”

Lewis & Clark, which produced its first graduates in 1873, boasts a gorgeous

campus perched atop fir- covered bluffs overlooking the river. The campus is an

old estate, complete with elaborate gardens, fountains, and pools, where cement is

almost nonexistent and the roads are paved with cobblestones. The Fowler Student

Center was fully renovated in 2023. The 50,000- square- foot Howard Hall, built as

part of the college’s commitment to sustainable development, earned a gold certifi-

cation from the U.S. Green Building Council. Lewis & Clark draws 100 percent of its

power from renewable sources.

Lewis & Clark requires that all students achieve competency in a foreign lan-

guage and international studies; 60 percent of students fulfill these requirements by

studying abroad for a semester or more. The college offers more than 30 study abroad

programs each year, many of which are faculty-

led, on six continents. Students may also study

in New York City. In addition to the interna-

tional studies and language requirements, stu-

dents must complete courses in creative arts; culture, power, and identity; historical

perspectives; natural sciences; and physical education and well- being. A required,

two- semester first- year seminar helps ease new students into college life.

Not surprisingly, one of the most popular majors at Lewis & Clark is inter-

national affairs; others include psychology, biology, economics, sociology and

anthropology, and English. There are multiple options for students seeking

advanced degrees in collaboration with Lewis & Clark’s Graduate School of

Education and Counseling, and Lewis & Clark Law School, and 3– 2 programs in

engineering. The Center for Community and Global Health offers premed and

other health professions advising. Honors programs are available in most depart-

ments. The Rogers Summer Science Research Program teams students and faculty

on research projects ranging from the evolution of spider venom to cybersecurity

analysis. The Bates Center for Entrepreneurship encourages collaboration with

faculty, mentors, and outside professionals to reframe problems using entrepre-

neurial thinking.

Academically, “Classes are a mix in terms of difficulty, student participation,

and amount of work,” reports a student double majoring in psychology and rhetoric

and media studies. Freshmen and graduating seniors get priority in the registration

process, helping ensure graduation in four years. For those who plan out their

requirements with their academic advisors but are unable to finish in four years, the

college commits to paying for an additional semester of study. Professors get high

marks for being knowledgeable and passionate. “The class sizes at L&C are fairly

small and intimate, allowing you to have close connections with your professors,”

explains a sociology and anthropology major.

“Students here are socially conscious, motivated, and involved,” says an inter-

national affairs major. Eleven percent of undergrads hail from Oregon, and many of

the rest are West Coasters seeking an emphasis on the liberal arts; the college is also

a haven for well- off Easterners who see L&C as

an escape from the social claustrophobia of the

typical prep school scene. Five percent of stu-

dents are drawn from foreign countries. The

campus is politically active and predominantly

left- leaning. A senior reports that a student movement to change the school’s name

on the grounds that it “glorifies colonizers and genocide” has been a hot- button

issue of late. The student body is 5 percent Asian American, 3 percent Black,

(continued)

Undergraduates: 2,168

Male/Female: 35/65

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 19%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 31%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 6,663

Accepted: 69%

Enrolled: 14%

Grad in 6 Years: 73%

Returning Freshmen: 86%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (503) 768- 7040

Email Address: admissions @

lclark .edu

Strong Programs:

International Affairs

Psychology

Biology

Economics

Sociology and Anthropology

English

Education

“Students here are socially

conscious, motivated, and

involved.”

The most successful

Pioneer teams include

men’s basketball and

baseball, and men’s

and women’s tennis.

“Classes are a mix in

terms of difficulty, student

participation, and amount

of work.”

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420 LEWIS & CLARK COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

11 percent Hispanic/Latino, and 8 percent multiracial. The Office of Equity and

Inclusion aims to promote and expand campus diversity. Non- need- based financial

aid awards average $25,800, but there are no athletic scholarships.

Lewis & Clark’s residency requirement keeps students on campus for two

years; 68 percent of all undergraduates stay in campus housing, which is described

as convenient. “The most common room is a double, but there are also quads and

singles, all of which have sufficient room for their respective residents,” reports a

student. Owing to the college’s hilltop location, lucky dorm residents have views

of Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, or the Portland skyline— at least when they

are not fogged in. Students involved in performing arts, multicultural engage-

ment, outdoor pursuits, and other programs can join living- learning communities.

Dining halls cater to different diets, offering vegetarian and vegan options at every

meal, and “the food can be tasty, but not always,” says a student. L&C is located

in a residential section of Portland, but safety is still a priority— residence halls

have card- swipe entry systems and door alarms, and campus security officers are

on duty 24 hours a day.

Fun- seekers at Lewis & Clark rely primarily on programs offered through Student

Activities, such as on- campus movies, contests, dances, improv nights, and talent

shows; there is no Greek life. Yearly events include the Fall Ball and Spring Fling

dances, the International Fair, and the Suntan and Sunburn music festivals. Students

21 and older are permitted to consume alcohol on campus, and students report that

alcohol policies prioritize student safety. “There is not a huge party culture on

campus, but it manifests in smaller kick- backs,” says a senior.

The neighborhood immediately surrounding the college is pleasant, affluent

suburbia, which means a few stores, restaurants, and bars. Students get involved

in community service through a variety of campus organizations. The activity of

Portland— mostly on Hawthorne Boulevard in the southeast section, and in the

Pearl District or on 23rd Street in the northwest quadrant— is 15 minutes away

on the city’s public transit system or the free campus shuttle service, the Pioneer

Express. On the weekends and during breaks, College Outdoors sponsors trips to

Mount Hood (great skiing, about an hour distant), the eastern Oregon high desert

(two hours), or the coastal beaches (an hour and a half). Seattle and Vancouver, BC,

three- and six- hour drives, are favorite road trips, as are San Francisco and Las Vegas

when there’s more time.

Pioneer teams compete in the Division III Northwest Conference, and the most

successful teams include men’s basketball and baseball, and men’s and women’s

tennis. Lewis & Clark has a well- organized intramural program. Ultimate Frisbee,

basketball, and volleyball are student favorites. The L&C speech and debate team

has won multiple national titles in recent years.

Lewis & Clark’s many outdoor enthusiasts and champions of social causes thrive

in the college’s laid- back atmosphere. Students are entrepreneurial thinkers,

knowledge- seeking pioneers— ones who would make the school’s namesakes proud.

“We constantly question and search for the answers,” says a senior.

Lewis & Clark

draws 100 percent

of its power from

renewable sources.

Overlaps

Whitman,

University of Puget

Sound, Willamette,

Reed, Occidental,

Colorado College,

University of

Oregon, University

of Washington

If You Apply To ›

Lewis & Clark: Early decision, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

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LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY 421

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Louisiana State University

1146 Pleasant Hall, Baton Rouge, LA 70803

In the state famous for Mardi Gras, students come to LSU for a great time as well as a

good education. Finding the former is a no- brainer. The latter can be had in everything

from coastal sciences to cybersecurity and art to agriculture. Administrators are

trying to make LSU a more serious place with higher admissions standards and less

underage drinking. Has recently admitted its most historically diverse freshmen

classes and continues to invest in infrastructure. Only university in the country with

a live tiger residing on campus.

From abundant azaleas and Japanese magnolias and the smell of Cajun cuisine, to

the sororities’ stately mansions and the “huge and legendary” rivalries with Alabama

and Florida, few schools evoke the spirit of the South like Louisiana State University

in Baton Rouge. The university offers solid programs in business, engineering, and

the life sciences, and the academic profile of its students continues to rise, bolster-

ing LSU’s strong sense of community and school pride. “We care so much about

our university and everything that we do on and off the field,” enthuses a junior.

“Geaux Tigers!”

LSU sits on 2,000 acres along the banks of the Mississippi River on the grounds

of a former plantation. Most of the 250 buildings are Italian Renaissance in style,

with tan stucco walls and red tile roofs. Lakes and sprawling oak trees dot the land-

scape, helping to diffuse the strong sun and temper Louisiana’s legendary humidity.

Recent campus projects include the newly renovated Barnes Ogden Art & Design

complex, and Azalea and Camellia halls, two new suite- style residential buildings.

Founded in 1853, LSU was once an open- admissions university for state res-

idents, but standards have gone up over the years, and with them the caliber of

students. Students must complete a broad core

curriculum with coursework in English compo-

sition, analytical reasoning, social sciences,

humanities, natural sciences, and the arts.

Entry- level classes can be large, but 43 percent

of all undergraduate courses enroll fewer than

20 students. Especially motivated students may opt to join the Ogden Honors

College to enjoy smaller class sizes, live in the Laville Honors House, and pro-

duce a senior thesis.

LSU students choose from more than 77 undergraduate degrees and tend to

focus on practical majors that will help them get into graduate school or find jobs

after graduation. To that end, popular majors include biological sciences— typical

for premeds— as well as kinesiology, psychology, mass communication, and busi-

ness. LSU’s programs in landscape architecture, engineering (especially petroleum),

physics, computer science, English, and music are highly regarded. Given LSU’s

location and history as a federal sea grant college, its offerings in coastal environ-

mental science and ecology are notable as well. The renowned, multidisciplinary

LSU Center for Internal Auditing was the first university- based internal auditing

training program to be established. Professors are lauded for their enthusiasm and

skill behind the lectern. “It can be difficult in classes with hundreds of students, but

the professors do their best to ensure one- on- one time if needed,” lauds a biological

sciences major. Research opportunities abound and include the President’s Future

Leaders in Research Program, which provides undergraduates the chance to work

side by side with professors in a research setting, such as a lab or in the field, to learn

Website: www .lsu .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 30,863

Undergraduates: 26,396

Male/Female: 45/55

Financial Aid: 93%

Pell Grant: 32%

Expense: Pub $

Student Loans: 42%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 38,853

Accepted: 76%

Enrolled: 25%

Grad in 6 Years: 70%

Returning Freshmen: 84%

Academics:

- -

Social:

% % % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (225) 578- 1175

Email Address: admissions @

lsu .edu

Strong Programs:

Business

Engineering

Landscape Architecture

Physics

Computer Science

English

Music

Coastal Environmental Science

Construction Management

“It can be difficult in classes

with hundreds of students,

but the professors do their

best to ensure one- on- one

time if needed.”

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422 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

what a career in that area might be like. Undergrads interested in study abroad can

choose from over 300 programs ranging in length from one week to one year.

Sixty- nine percent of LSU Tigers are Louisiana natives, and 3 percent come from

abroad. Black students make up 17 percent of the undergraduate student body,

Asian Americans 5 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 9 percent, and multiracial students

3 percent. A political science major describes the political climate on campus as

“very moderate for a Southern school.” LSU’s tuition is below the national average,

but, in the face of dwindling support from the state, the university has passed more

and more of the cost of education on to students in the form of fees— such as a “stu-

dent excellence fee”— that function like de facto tuition. Thousands of merit schol-

arships are available, averaging $6,600, and LSU hands out more than 530 athletic

scholarships each year in 21 sports. The Pelican Promise Scholarship provides addi-

tional financial aid to low- income, Pell- eligible, in- state students.

Thirty percent of students live on campus. Over the past decade, the university

has invested more than $150 million in housing facilities, with more than 70 percent

of the undergraduate housing either newly constructed or renovated. Ten percent of

students choose to live in 10 residential colleges

organized by academic interest. Meals at the

dining halls receive average reviews, but a number

of “delicious and inexpensive” eateries lie within

easy reach of campus. Although crime can be a

concern in Baton Rouge, a senior reports, “Campus safety is a priority, and our police

department has increased night patrolling and self- defense classes since my first

year.” LSU also provides a transit system so that students don’t have to walk alone

after dark.

With nearly 500 student clubs, tailgating during football season, and the many

nearby bars in Tigerland, social life at LSU “is never- ending,” enthuses a student.

“Our large emphasis on sports is a big contributor to the intense party culture found

on campus,” explains a psychology major. Fifteen percent of the men and 25 percent

of the women go Greek. The administration has instituted several policy changes

related to Greek life, including a ban on hard alcohol at all on- and off- campus Greek

events, in hopes of reducing binge drinking, hazing, and other problems. “LSU has

made an effort to educate and encourage victims and bystanders of hazing to speak

out,” says a senior. As for traditions, everyone looks forward to Mardi Gras and annual

festivals such as Groovin’, a free concert featuring a big- name artist. “Our Memorial

Tower plays our alma mater every day at noon, and everyone loves to stop and listen

to it,” cheers an English major. Road trips to New Orleans and the Florida beaches are

common during spring break.

Tiger football is king in Baton Rouge— witness the 102,000- seat Tiger Stadium,

the $28 million renovated locker room that the New York Times described as “a

purple- and- gold mash- up of a first- class airplane cabin and a sci- fi space station,”

and Mike the Tiger, the live tiger mascot that lives in a 15,000- square- foot hab-

itat adjacent to the football stadium. The rowdy LSU contingent at away games

has earned a reputation worthy of English soccer fans. Many students follow the

team (and the fun) to Oxford, Mississippi (home of Ole Miss), or Auburn, Alabama

(home of the Auburn Tigers). “The Alabama football game hands down” is the big-

gest rivalry, says a sophomore. The Tiger baseball team is a dynasty, having brought

home multiple Southeastern Conference titles and six national championships.

Women’s basketball won the 2023 NCAA championship; women’s gymnastics and

women’s soccer are also strong, as is men’s outdoor track. As for recreational sports,

intramural soccer, flag football, and softball are popular.

LSU’s trees and traditions date back 170 years, but the school continues to evolve

in its efforts to attract a more academically motivated student body. The university

The renowned,

multidisciplinary LSU

Center for Internal

Auditing was the

first university- based

internal auditing

training program

to be established.

“Our Memorial Tower plays

our alma mater every day

at noon, and everyone

loves to stop and listen.”

Everyone looks

forward to Mardi Gras

and annual festivals

such as Groovin’, a

free concert featuring

a big- name artist.

Overlaps

University of

Tennessee

Knoxville, Auburn,

University of

Arkansas, Clemson,

Oklahoma State,

University

of Louisiana,

Southeastern

Louisiana, Texas

A&M

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LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MARYLAND 423

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

is focused on the goals of learning, discovery, diversity, and engagement, and

though it may be a while before its academic profile matches its athletic prowess,

that’s what administrators say they are aiming for. In the meantime, students are

happy to laissez les bons temps rouler!

If You Apply To ›

LSU: Rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application. Application allows students to utilize

preferred name, gender pronouns, and self- identified gender.

Loyola University Maryland

4501 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21210

Vintage Jesuit school with a rigorous liberal arts curriculum, caring faculty, and a

strong sense of community. Baltimore location a plus for those with “I don’t want to

miss anything” attitude. Same size as Providence, smaller than BC, Fordham, and

other Roman Catholic schools in urban settings. No varsity football, but top- ranked

lacrosse teams evoke plenty of school spirit.

Four U.S. universities bear the name of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society

of Jesus (Jesuits), but this one is the granddaddy of them all. Founded in 1852 (and

the one that laid claim to www .loyola .edu), Loyola University Maryland combines

the virtues of a residential campus with ready access to a major city on the Amtrak

corridor. Loyola jumped up from “college” to “university” status in 2009 and, with

a “big enough but not too big” feel, manages to strike a balance between real- world

experience and the traditional Jesuit ideals of academic excellence, a liberal arts cur-

riculum, and cura personalis (a.k.a. care of the whole person).

Loyola’s Evergreen campus, the home to undergraduates, sits on 80 green and

wooded acres in a mixed residential area in northern Baltimore, about 15 minutes

from the heart of the city. The academic Quad features the largest collection of col-

legiate Gothic buildings in Baltimore, including

the Alumni Memorial Chapel with its lovely

stained- glass windows. Architectural variety is

provided by the Tudor- style Humanities Center,

built in 1896; the contemporary Sellinger School of Business and Management, with

its five- story glass facade; and the LEED Gold– certified Fernandez Family Center for

Innovation and Collaborative Learning.

Undergraduate academics at Loyola are organized around the triumvirate of the

School of Education, the Sellinger School of Business and Management, and Loyola

College of Arts and Sciences. Consistent with Jesuit academic tradition, Loyola stu-

dents pursue a core curriculum of 15 courses that encourages critical thinking across

the liberal arts and sciences. Among the requirements are a course in ethics and

the choice of one diversity- designated course— with a focus on global or domestic

diversity or justice awareness. Messina is the university’s first- year living/learning

program, in which students enroll in two linked seminar classes, one in the fall and

one in the spring, focused on one of four themes: The Visionary, Self and Other,

Stories We Tell, and The Good Life. The courses are taught by their core advisor,

and students benefit from additional Messina resources, including an upper- class

peer mentor (called an “Evergreen”) and special programs, events, and excursions.

Website: www .loyola .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Private

Total Enrollment: 4,364

Undergraduates: 3,945

Male/Female: 45/55

Financial Aid: 59%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 61%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 9,643

Accepted: 83%

Enrolled: 13%

Grad in 6 Years: 79%

Returning Freshmen: 85%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (410) 617- 5012

Email Address: admission @

loyola .edu

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Communication

Sustainability Management

Education

Speech- Language- Hearing

Sciences

“Students . . . tend to work

together on projects or

while studying.”

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424 LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MARYLAND

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

“It makes new students feel like they are a part of the Loyola community and realize

how many people care about them here,” says a biology major.

The business program, which consists of nine majors ranging from accounting

to sustainability management, is strong, as are most of the humanities. Business

administration, psychology, biology, and communication are the most popular

majors. Other strong areas, students say, include

forensic studies, speech- language- hearing sci-

ences, and engineering. Students describe the

academic program at Loyola as challenging but

supportive. “Students are generally not compet-

ing against each other for the best grades, but rather tend to work together on proj-

ects or while studying,” says a senior. Teaching assistants are an unknown species,

and 49 percent of classes have fewer than 20 students. Students praise their profes-

sors’ emphasis on teaching and getting to know students. “I cannot imagine what it

would be like not to have a professor know my name,” says a senior.

Each summer, 10 to 12 undergraduates are selected to work side by side with

faculty from the six natural and applied science departments to conduct research in

the students’ area of interest and participate in seminars. For top students, the

Honors Program, Sellinger Scholars for business students, and CPaMS Scholars for

math, computer science, statistics, data science, or physics students provide an

interdisciplinary route through a more ambitious core curriculum. Up to 60 percent

of the students study abroad in their choice of more than 25 countries, usually for a

semester during their junior year. Venues range from Bangkok, Dubai, and Singapore

to Cape Town, Glasgow, and, of course, Rome. Loyola students are encouraged to do

community service while abroad and to submit an Immersion Research Project upon

return. “I studied in Cork, Ireland, and it was one of the highlights of my college

experience!” cheers a senior.

Students at Loyola tend to be, in the words of one senior, “fairly preppy.” Thirty-

one percent of undergraduates hail from Maryland, and 2 percent come from other

countries. Black students represent 10 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 14 percent, Asian

Americans 4 percent, and multiracial students

4 percent. Fifty- two percent of undergrads

describe themselves as Catholics. “Religion has a

huge impact on campus,” says one non- Catholic,

who adds, “As a Christian, I love the fact that I can openly talk about my religion and

that others accept my beliefs.” Students cite women’s and LGBTQ rights, immigra-

tion reform, homelessness, and hunger as popular causes on campus. Merit awards

average $23,200, and Loyola offers more than 200 athletic scholarships in 13 sports.

Loyola students enjoy the spacious, modern residence halls, which are located

west of the main campus and are connected by a pedestrian bridge spanning Charles

Street. “One of the perks of Loyola’s housing is that there are only a few traditional

dorms,” explains a psychology major. “Loyola has mostly apartment- style living,”

and it’s possible to live in an apartment or suite with a kitchen and bathroom as early

as freshman year. Not surprisingly, 79 percent of students live on campus. There are

10 locations for on- campus dining, including a Starbucks in the new Andrew White

Student Center, which is a popular hub. While Loyola is an urban campus, an account-

ing major reports, “the Loyola police do a good job to make us all feel safe on campus.”

Loyola has no fraternities or sororities, but given the proximity to Baltimore, this

arrangement is just fine with students. “Most of Loyola’s social life takes place off

campus,” says a student. “Bars and clubs are very close to campus, and the penalties

for throwing a party in your room are pretty steep.” That’s not to say that on- campus

life is monastic. “The campus is always buzzing with things like concerts and fes-

tivals,” says an English major. The undisputed high point of the social calendar is

(continued)

Engineering

Psychology

Biology

“I studied in Cork, Ireland,

and it was one of the

highlights of my college

experience!”

Loyola University

Maryland combines

the virtues of a

residential campus

with ready access to

a major city on the

Amtrak corridor.

“The campus is always

buzzing with things like

concerts and festivals.”

Loyola students are

encouraged to do

community service

while abroad and to

submit an Immersion

Research Project

upon return.

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LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY 425

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Loyolapalooza, the spring festival held on the last weekend before final exams to cele-

brate the academic year. Students gather on the Quad for a concert, games, and food.

A close second is the annual Black Student Association Fashion Show in the spring.

Baltimore is a city where urban problems have been well documented. For stu-

dents at Loyola, this means that community service, in which 52 percent of students

get involved, plays a prominent role in campus life. “The passion for service runs

very strong through the veins of Loyola,” says a senior. The Center for Community,

Service, and Justice connects students with opportunities ranging from one- time

volunteer activities to semester- long service- learning courses. The city of Baltimore

also offers an abundance of sights, including the famed Inner Harbor, with its many

restaurants and museums, as well as major league sports. Loyola’s neighbors include

numerous other colleges and universities, including Johns Hopkins and Towson

University. Baltimore “has plenty of young- adult neighborhoods and pockets of

entertainment,” reports an accounting major. Washington, D.C., an hour away by

train, is a frequent weekend destination.

Loyola eschews varsity football, but the Greyhounds compete in the Division I

Patriot League in eight men’s and nine women’s sports. Befitting the school’s Maryland

location, both the men’s and women’s lacrosse teams are consistently strong. Men’s

soccer and golf have also been successful in recent years. For those with more modest

athletic ambitions, Loyola sponsors a variety of club sports teams and intramural

events, as well as 40 outdoor adventure trips each year. Flag football, volleyball, and

soccer are especially popular. The state- of- the- art Fitness and Aquatic Center features a

well- equipped fitness center, a rock- climbing wall, a 14- lane pool, and other amenities.

Some Loyola denizens lament the absence of football and the dearth of on-

campus parties, but such complaints seem a small price to pay for four years as part

of a close- knit community that takes its humanistic, academic, and social values

seriously. “We care for each other, and our Jesuit mission rings true in our day- to-

day lives,” says a senior. A classmate adds, “The good food, residence halls, and

location don’t hurt either.”

Loyola’s neighbors

include numerous

other colleges and

universities, including

Johns Hopkins and

Towson University.

Overlaps

Loyola Marymount,

Villanova, Santa

Clara, St. Joseph’s,

Fairfield,

Providence, Boston

College, University

of Maryland

(College Park)

If You Apply To ›

Loyola: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

Loyola Marymount University

1 LMU Drive, Suite 100, Los Angeles, CA 90045

LMU is a university rooted in the Catholic, Jesuit, and Marymount traditions known

for its strategic L.A. location and world- class programs in film and television,

business, engineering, and communication. Big international emphasis in film and

theatre arts. Compare to Chapman, Santa Clara, and University of San Diego. To take

full advantage of L.A., access to a car is highly beneficial.

At Loyola Marymount University, one of the largest Roman Catholic universities

on the West Coast, students are treated to ideal weather year- round, a vast array of

internship opportunities, and an academic lineup that includes solid programs in

film and television, liberal arts and sciences, and business. “LMU is more than an

academic institution,” says a junior. “It is a community dedicated to helping stu-

dents grow and thrive.”

Website: www .lmu .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 9,219

Undergraduates: 6,992

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426 LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Established in 1911, LMU occupies a 142- acre campus perched on a bluff over-

looking the Pacific Ocean and Marina del Rey in Westchester, a peaceful residen-

tial neighborhood of Los Angeles. Campus architecture is a mix of modern and a

modified Spanish Colonial Revival style, with

orange- tiled roofs. The university is sponsored

by three religious orders: the Society of Jesus

(Jesuits), the Religious of the Sacred Heart of

Mary, and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange.

Campus highlights include the 24- hour Hannon

Library, the $110 million, LEED Gold– certified

Featherston Life Sciences Building, and the new Fitzpatrick Pavilion, boasting

high- tech production and screening spaces for the film school.

LMU offers 55 baccalaureate majors and 58 minors in six colleges and schools.

The general education requirements (known as the Core Curriculum) are designed

to encourage intellectual breadth, tackling themes such as faith and reason; ethics

and justice; culture; art and society; and science, nature, and society. Incoming stu-

dents may take part in a number of programs designed to support the transition to

college, including a first- year seminar and an honors program.

The most popular programs include marketing, psychology, communication

studies, and finance; these are also some of the university’s best. Other strong pro-

grams include film and television production, journalism, entrepreneurship, com-

puter science, engineering, and theatre arts. Students in the School of Film and

Television have access to a number of resources, including a student- run production

office, a television stage, and a film soundstage with a professional green screen (for

those cool CGI effects!). They also benefit from the program’s strong international

emphasis, including the chance to study in Bonn, Germany, and produce their own

documentaries, or a chance to study film and television while attending The Cinema

Ritrovato festival in Bologna. Those in the Seaver College of Science and Engineering

take part in national competitions to build rockets and race eco- friendly cars. New

academic offerings include a new department of journalism, a major in computer

engineering, and minors in media and international documentary production

and health and human sciences. Thanks to its hip Los Angeles locale, LMU offers

experience- hungry students a plethora of internships, including stints at Disney and

Warner Bros. LMU offers more than 100 exchange, semester, and short- term study

abroad options on six continents in a wide range of disciplines.

Like nearby Tinseltown, LMU manages to be both competitive and relaxed. “LMU

students generally care about their academic performance and seek challenges where

they can,” observes an economics major. Fifty- seven percent of classes have fewer

than 20 students, and while academic rigor and quality of instruction vary by pro-

gram, students say teacher- student interaction is commonplace. “Professors are not

only experts in their field, working for organizations like NASA and doing research

with Olympians, but they truly care,” shares a health and human sciences major.

LMU undergraduates hail from 48 states and 82 foreign countries; 59 percent

come from California and 10 percent from abroad. LMU students have “a self- starter

and go- getter attitude mixed with a passion for justice and advocacy,” notes a senior.

Black students represent 7 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 24 per-

cent, Asian Americans 10 percent, and multiracial students 8 percent. A junior

describes LMU students’ political views as “involved in local and national issues that

are relevant with the times but not to the point of hyper- partisanship.” Merit schol-

arships averaging $12,100 are available for qualified students, and the athletically

inclined vie for 216 athletic scholarships in 19 sports.

About half of LMU students live on campus. Many first- years choose to partici-

pate in themed living/learning communities, including those dedicated to specific

“Professors are not only

experts in their field,

working for organizations

like NASA and doing

research with Olympians,

but they truly care.”

(continued)

Male/Female: 47/53

Financial Aid: 90%

Pell Grant: 12%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 43%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 21,695

Accepted: 41%

Enrolled: 18%

Grad in 6 Years: 82%

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (310) 338- 2750

Email Address: admission @

lmu .edu

Strong Programs:

Film and Television Production

Journalism

Entrepreneurship

Computer Science

Engineering

Communication

Marketing

Psychology

Those in the Seaver

College of Science

and Engineering

take part in national

competitions to build

rockets and race

eco- friendly cars.

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LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS 427

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

academic disciplines, first- generation students, and Ignatian leadership. The univer-

sity offers a variety of dining options, with some reporting that the food has “vastly

improved.” Students describe campus security as good, and one senior comments,

“LMU does a good job of informing students about sexual consent.”

The social life at LMU takes place “both on and off campus,” says one student.

Student organizations and clubs frequently host activities, and Greek life influences

the scene, too, attracting 16 percent of the men and 26 percent of the women.

Students say there is little pressure to drink. Everyone looks forward to Fallapalooza,

an outdoor music festival that “is such a great way to kick off the year,” says a junior,

and it’s a tradition for your friends to toss you into Foley Fountain on your birthday.

The university’s Jesuit heritage promotes a commitment to community service, and

about 70 percent of students take part, volunteering more than 200,000 hours of

service every year in after- school programs, homeless shelters, health clinics, and

other settings. The area of Westchester is “definitely not a college town,” groans a

sophomore. Fortunately, there’s a lot nearby. “Many students like to go to the beach,

Playa Vista, Venice, Manhattan Beach, or Santa Monica to get off campus,” explains

a junior. Popular road trips include San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Las Vegas.

Back on campus, LMU’s varsity teams compete in the Division I West Coast

Conference. The men’s golf, women’s beach and indoor volleyball, and women’s tennis

are a few of LMU’s nationally competitive teams

who have recently won West Coast Conference

titles and competed in the NCAA Tournament. The

Lions’ rivalry with nearby Pepperdine always draws

a huge crowd, and the basketball team’s annual

pep rally— LMU Madness— “is a pretty big event,”

says a student. Intramurals and club sports are popular and include flag football, bil-

liards, lacrosse, and rugby, among others. LMU’s debate team is a standout, too, regu-

larly placing at the top in national and international tournaments.

With its dynamic mix of solid academics, Jesuit and Marymount traditions, and

thriving social life, LMU offers students substance and style. “Being a Jesuit school

in Los Angeles, our students and faculty are catalysts for change and are always look-

ing to make the world a better place,” says a student. Whether you’re a budding

scientist or a future filmmaker, Loyola Marymount University may be worth a look.

Everyone looks forward

to Fallapalooza, an

outdoor music festival

that kicks off the year.

“Many students like to go

to the beach, Playa Vista,

Venice, Manhattan Beach,

or Santa Monica to get off

campus.”

Overlaps

Chapman, Santa

Clara, UC Berkeley,

University of

Southern California,

UCLA, Cal Poly– San

Luis Obispo, UC

Santa Barbara,

NYU

If You Apply To ›

LMU: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Applicants

to animation, dance, music, production (film and television), and theatre arts are required to submit a portfolio or audition;

studio arts applicants have an option to submit a portfolio. Please consult LMU’s website for the most up- to- date informa-

tion regarding standardized test requirements.

Loyola University New Orleans

6363 St. Charles Ave., Box 89, New Orleans, LA 70118

Of the four Loyolas in the nation, this is the only one where you can go to Mardi Gras

and then study the music you heard the next morning in class. New Orleans (a.k.a.

NOLA) is an ideal setting for this Roman Catholic, Jesuit university with strengths

in business, communication, science, and nursing. NOLA is the most freewheeling

Deep South city, and campus politics are mainly liberal.

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428 LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Loyola University New Orleans is a liberal arts school founded in 1904 by the

Society of Jesus (Jesuits) that continues to enhance its rich tradition through

extensive service- learning programs, increasing admissions standards, and a

renewed commitment to diversifying the student body. “Social justice is at the

heart of the education and life here,” says a senior. The university has capital-

ized on its unique NOLA setting to develop excellent programs in environmental

studies, entrepreneurship, and artistic and creative fields, with a preprofessional

bent.

The school’s attractive and well- kept 22- acre main campus, in the University

section of Uptown New Orleans, mixes Tudor, Gothic, and modern structures. It

overlooks acres of Audubon Park and, beyond, the mighty Mississippi River. Two

blocks up St. Charles Avenue, Loyola’s Broadway

campus has an additional four acres. The reno-

vated Monroe Hall features state- of- the- art sci-

ence labs, including a nursing simulation,

high- tech design studios, recording and production facilities, and a seventh- floor

greenhouse. The Monroe Library houses approximately 500,000 volumes, an art gal-

lery, and the Pan- American Life Student Success Center.

The Loyola Core involves distribution requirements designed to develop

skills in critical thinking, effective communication, quantitative reasoning,

information literacy, and ethical reasoning. In addition to taking a First- Year

Seminar that introduces them to college- level work and the Jesuit tradition

of “thinking critically, acting justly,” incoming students are assigned a “suc-

cess coach” who provides academic guidance and helps instill life skills. Other

aspects of Loyola’s comprehensive first- year experience include a series of lec-

tures and panel discussions, educational excursions, service- learning projects,

and a peer mentoring program.

The School of Communication and Design, whose students do well in national

competitions, wins praise, as does virtually any program in the College of Music

and Media, including majors in digital filmmaking, graphic design, jazz studies, and

popular and commercial music that are increasingly sought- after in a city where

these creative professions are defining specialties. Indeed, befitting its home in New

Orleans, music industry studies is one of the most popular majors, along with psy-

chology, mass communication, biology, and management. Loyola’s urban and elec-

tronic music production major is the first of its kind in the country, and students

make use of state- of- the- art broadcast and recording studios. Environmental stud-

ies, finance, English, neuroscience, and pre- health are also strengths, and a minor

in New Orleans studies is available. New and fast- growing majors include nursing,

public health, and cybersecurity.

Loyola’s academic climate is said to be challenging, supportive, and vibrant.

Forty- nine percent of undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students, and stu-

dents report that most faculty make an effort to get to know their students. “I have

connected on a personal level with every professor I’ve had here,” says an English

major. Regarding counseling services, a first- year student explains, “Loyola takes

mental health very seriously. There were free depression screenings, and every week

there is an anxiety workshop.”

The University Honors Program, open to students in all majors, gives high-

achieving students access to small seminars, collaborative research projects with fac-

ulty, social activities, and other special opportunities. Thirty- two percent of

undergraduates exercise their wings in study abroad programs available in more

than 50 countries. With the help of the Career Development Center, 26 percent of

students make service part of their studies, and Loyola is a top producer of Peace

Corps and Teach for America volunteers. Many students invest their sweat equity in

Website: www .loyno .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 3,643

Undergraduates: 2,953

Male/Female: 34/66

Financial Aid: 92%

Pell Grant: 43%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 69%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 7,340

Accepted: 78%

Enrolled: 14%

Grad in 6 Years: 67%

Returning Freshmen: 76%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 456- 9652

Email Address: admit @ loyno

.edu

Strong Programs:

Business

Criminology and Justice

Environmental Studies

Digital Filmmaking

Music Industry Studies

Finance

English

Neuroscience

Psychology

“Social justice is at the

heart of the education and

life here.”

Given Loyola’s

academic strengths,

the student body is

an interesting mix

of creative types,

social justice activists,

and career- minded

preprofessionals.

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LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS 429

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

the Loyola University Community Action Program, a student- led coalition of several

organizations that take on issues such as hunger and homelessness.

Given Loyola’s academic strengths, the student body is an interesting mix

of creative types, social justice activists, and career- minded preprofessionals.

“While they study hard, they also know how to have fun,” says a computer sci-

ence major. Forty- five percent of Loyola undergraduates are Louisiana natives,

and many of the remaining students are from the Southeast; 4 percent are inter-

national. Twenty- two percent are Hispanic/Latino, 19 percent are Black, 3 percent

are Asian American, and 5 percent are multiracial. Religion— specifically Roman

Catholicism— has a significant influence on campus; 39 percent of students are

Catholic. Daily mass is voluntary, but many students attend. Ten other religions

are also represented on campus, and the political atmosphere is largely liberal.

Students are particularly active in advocating for women’s rights and LGBTQ+-

and gender- related issues. Loyola awards merit scholarships averaging $22,300

each year and roughly 120 athletic scholarships in nine sports. About a third of

undergrads are first- generation college students, and 43 percent of freshmen are

Pell- eligible.

Many Loyola students commute from home or off- campus apartments;

37 percent of undergraduates reside in campus housing. The transition to college

is eased by Themed Living Communities, which house classmates together in a

common living space within one of the residence halls. Campus dining in the

Orleans Room is described as adequate, and a junior comments, “It’s a great ben-

efit to have Tulane University across the street because we can use their dining

facilities as well.” Iggy’s Cupboard is a free, student- run food pantry designed to

address the issue of food insecurity on campus. According to a senior, “This is a

very safe campus.”

“Loyola gives us lots of cool things to do on campus,” a philosophy major says,

including musical performances, sporting events, and Third Friday— a different

themed party or festival held the third Friday of every month with free food, music,

and games. Fraternities and sororities are rarities

at Jesuit schools, but they make themselves felt at

Loyola, with 12 percent of the men and 13 per-

cent of the women choosing to belong. Major

annual events include the “Sneaux Day,” which “features a petting zoo, a snow field,

crafting stations, and multiple food booths,” reports a student, the musical event

Christmas at Loyola, and a crawfish boil in the spring. Loyola even takes the week of

Mardi Gras off as a holiday and allows students to register overnight visitors so they

can attend the festivities. With so much bustling nightlife in the surrounding city,

students report that not much underage drinking happens on campus. “New Orleans

is such an exciting city to go to college in,” cheers a theatre arts major. “It has a super-

cool culture of local shops and businesses”— not to mention the seemingly endless

bars, clubs, restaurants, and live music venues.

The Wolf Pack’s 18 teams compete in the NAIA Division I, most as members of

the Southern States Athletic Conference, and the men’s basketball team won the

NAIA national championship in 2022. Other competitive teams include men’s and

women’s swimming, women’s basketball, and women’s golf. Loyola’s wellness pro-

gram offers a range of fitness classes, intramurals, club sports, and other recreational

activities for jocks and non- jocks alike. Basketball, flag football (no real pigskins at

Loyola), women’s volleyball, and co- ed esports are popular pastimes.

Students at Loyola know how to pull together and draw strength from their

faith as well as from the distinctive culture of New Orleans. Whether they’re work-

ing closely with caring professors or relaxing with friends amid the Big Easy’s bound-

less energy, students are satisfied with their choice. “Tulane may be bigger, but

Incoming students

are assigned a

“success coach” who

provides academic

guidance and helps

instill life skills.

“New Orleans is such

an exciting city to go to

college in.”

Overlaps

Rider, Valparaiso,

Stetson, Seattle

Pacific, Lipscomb,

Xavier University of

Louisiana, Tulane,

Morehouse

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430 MACALESTER COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Loyola is more representative of New Orleans culture,” concludes a computer sci-

ence major. “You could say it has ‘soul.’”

If You Apply To ›

Loyola: Early action, rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: not considered. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Audition, portfolio, and/or interview required for admission to the College of Music and Media.

Macalester College

1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105

A small school that punches well above its weight, Macalester offers an internation-

alist and multiculturalist view of the world. One of only a handful of leading liberal

arts colleges in a metropolitan setting. Carleton has a bigger national reputation,

but Mac has the progressive capital city of St. Paul and a distinctive Scottish flavor.

Eighty- one percent of the student body hails from outside Minnesota.

Founded in 1874, Macalester College is an international island in the heart of the

Great Plains. Liberal describes both its curriculum and its politics. Students here

advocate for all sorts of issues with local, national, or international import— from

LGBTQ rights and immigration policy to divestment from fossil fuels. Mac students

come to the school “deeply caring about a social justice issue,” says one student,

“and throughout their years at Mac, their passions expand and deepen.” Bagpipes

are heard frequently on campus, opening formal events and leading all major pro-

cessions as a stirring reminder of the college’s historic Scottish roots. Says one senior,

“Bagpipes are like the Macalester anthem.”

Macalester takes its name from a Scotsman named Charles Macalester, an advi-

sor to Abraham Lincoln and other U.S. presidents. The college is located in a friendly,

family- oriented neighborhood in St. Paul, Minnesota, one mile from the Mississippi

River, which divides St. Paul from Minneapolis.

Summit Avenue, a tree- lined street with the lon-

gest, best- preserved stretch of Victorian homes in

the nation, forms the campus’s northern bound-

ary. The self- contained, 53- acre campus is

arranged around 136- year- old Old Main, a splendid Victorian structure listed on the

National Register of Historic Places. The unifying theme is red brick, the better to set

off the octagonal Weyerhaeuser Chapel, constructed of black glass. Other notable

facilities include the Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center (a.k.a. “J-Wall”), a $32 million

theater and dance building and favorite study spot described by a student as a

“supercool building” complete with “art studios where you can see ceramics stu-

dents at the pottery wheel late into the night.”

Mac’s general education requirements span the liberal arts and sciences and

include at least two courses that address cultural diversity. Every student also com-

pletes a seminar- style First- Year Course and, in their senior year, a capstone expe-

rience, such as an independent research project, performance, artistic work, or

other original work. In addition to international studies, Mac’s academic strengths

include geography, economics, math, statistics, computer science, and media and

cultural studies. Eleven foreign languages are offered, including Arabic, Portuguese,

and Russian. The most popular majors are political science, biology, mathematics,

Website: www .macalester .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,136

Undergraduates: 2,136

Male/Female: 41/55

Financial Aid: 87%

Pell Grant: 25%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 58%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 8,434

Accepted: 28%

Enrolled: 23%

Grad in 6 Years: 88%

Returning Freshmen: 91%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (651) 696- 6357

Email Address: admissions @

macalester .edu

Strong Programs:

International Studies

Geography

Economics

Mathematics

Statistics

Computer Science

Media and Cultural Studies

Biology

“[Mac students fall]

somewhere between the

quirky intellectual and the

globe- trotting activist.”

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Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and computer science. Science facilities include an observatory and labs for elec-

tronic instrumentation and laser spectroscopy.

A sophomore says, “We take our studies seriously and, as a result, conversations

continue outside of the classroom because that’s how much of an impact they’ve

had on us.” Mac emphasizes small class sizes, working together to handle the chal-

lenging workload, and interdisciplinarity. “There are a lot of interdisciplinary sub-

jects and international culture here, so you can work your brain in different ways

and broaden your understanding of subjects from a global perspective,” explains a

biology major. Teaching and personal relationships are paramount, with professors

often having students over for dinner or meeting for coffee.

The late Kofi Annan, former UN secretary general and class of ’61, typified one

of Macalester’s hallmarks: internationalism, not just in its curriculum and its stu-

dent body, but also in its emphasis on international, off- campus experiences. An

impressive 60 percent of students go abroad to complete traditional coursework,

independent research, and internships, choosing from 95 exchange and partner

programs on six continents. Fifty- two percent conduct undergraduate research,

often in stipend- supported positions with Mac professors during the summer. Before

graduation, more than three- quarters of the students complete an internship, usu-

ally in the Twin Cities area, and almost all students get involved in volunteer work.

An economics major says Mac students tend to fall “somewhere between the

quirky intellectual and the globe- trotting activist,” adding, “We love discussing polit-

ical and social issues— sometimes to a fault.” Nineteen percent of Macalester students

hail from Minnesota, and the rest come from

every state, and nearly 100 other countries— the

proportion of international students is substan-

tial, at 13 percent. Six percent of domestic stu-

dents are Black, 10 percent are Hispanic/Latino,

8 percent are Asian American, and 8 percent are multiracial. Merit scholarships aver-

age $18,034; there are no athletic scholarships. Macalester guarantees to meet

100 percent of the demonstrated financial need of all admitted students.

Freshmen and sophomores are required to live in college housing; 58 percent

of all students dwell in college- owned digs, which include traditional residences

with single or double rooms as well as suites for upperclassmen. “There are a ton

of housing options like language housing, quiet housing, food- specific housing,

and more,” enthuses a senior. Junior and senior residents of the Interfaith House

and the Veggie Co- op prepare their own meals, while other students enjoy vittles

in the campus center. “It’s really easy to hate on Café Mac, the one dining hall

here,” says a junior, “but honestly the food is much better than people give it credit

for.” Students praise campus security and the college’s proactive approach to sexual

assault and mental health awareness. “We are constantly holding dialogues, having

discussions, bringing in outside speakers, and addressing policy about this growing

issue,” reports a junior.

Given the proximity of a major metropolitan area, much of Mac’s social life

takes place in the city, although there are plenty of events on campus organized by

the student- backed Program Board and other student clubs for those loath to leave.

“There is no Greek life at Mac, so the parties normally happen off campus,” notes a

sophomore. Popular annual events include Founders Day, Winter Ball, Springfest,

and the Brain Bowl football game against in- state rival Carleton. There are about a

dozen other colleges and universities in town, and the Twin Cities are an excellent

place to live, with plenty of bookstores, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, plus dance

and jazz clubs and professional sports teams. Public transportation makes it rela-

tively easy to get around. The Mall of America is nearby, though Mac students tend

to tire of it quickly. For those with wheels, the best road trips include Chicago,

Macalester takes

its name from a

Scotsman named

Charles Macalester,

an advisor to Abraham

Lincoln and other

U.S. presidents.

“There is no Greek life

at Mac, so the parties

normally happen off

campus.”

Popular annual events

include Founders

Day, Winter Ball,

Springfest, and the

Brain Bowl football

game against in-

state rival Carleton.

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432 UNIVERSITY OF MAINE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Madison, and Duluth— and Bemidji, Minnesota, “to see Babe the Blue Ox,” according

to a senior.

Competitive Division III Scots teams include baseball, football, women’s water

polo, and men’s and women’s soccer, cross- country, and track and field. Macalester

has one of the oldest competitive debate programs in the nation, and the mock trial

program is highly ranked nationally. About 60 percent of the students compete in

intramural and club sports, including dodgeball, rugby, and ice hockey. “Whenever

the weather’s nice, students dot the lawns playing Frisbee, soccer, or cricket— yes,

cricket!” says one student.

Macalester pairs high- powered scholarship with global perspectives informed by

its Scottish heritage. The skill and diversity of the student body are rising. Students

here appreciate their freedom to grow within a supportive community. “There are so

many different types of students, sports and clubs, areas of study, and organizations

to be a part of, it’s honestly crazy how much there is for such a small and intimate

school,” raves a senior. “Macalester is small, but it really doesn’t feel like it.”

Overlaps

Carleton, Grinnell,

Oberlin, Brown,

Middlebury,

St. Olaf, Vassar,

Kenyon

If You Apply To ›

Macalester: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application

with supplement.

University of Maine

Orono, ME 04469

A sleeper choice for out- of- staters amid better- known public universities such as

UMass, UNH, and UVM. Not coincidentally, UMaine is the least expensive— and

easiest in admission— of the four. A popular marine sciences program flourishes here,

as does engineering. UMaine is a global leader in the development of offshore wind

power. Offers a solid honors program and one of the top varsity hockey programs in

the nation. Aggressively recruiting out- of- state students.

At the University of Maine, over 8,000 undergraduates help themselves to a range

of strong academic programs at a reasonable cost. As the state’s flagship university,

UMaine attracts top students to its marine sciences program. A friendly, medium-

sized student body and an emphasis on undergraduate learning help create a cozy

atmosphere that warms up the long Maine winters. A biology major boasts, “We’re

competitive, we’re focused on groundbreaking technology in our academics, and

above all, we’re focused on taking care of each other.”

Situated on an island between the Stillwater and Penobscot rivers, UMaine’s

campus covers 660 acres, centered on a large, tree- shaded grass mall. Architectural

themes range from English academic to contem-

porary. Newer facilities include the Innovative

Media Research and Commercialization Center,

which contains a computer- driven 3- D router, a

video production lab, and rich- media classrooms,

and the Versant Power Astronomy Center, home to the state’s largest planetarium. The

$78 million Ferland Engineering Education and Design Center opened in 2022.

As Maine’s only public research university, UMaine (founded in 1865) offers

nearly 100 undergraduate majors and academic programs. The university is divided

Website: www .umaine .edu

Location: Rural

Public

Total Enrollment: 8,089

Undergraduates: 7,348

Male/Female: 52/48

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 26%

Expense: Pub $ $

Student Loans: 69%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 14,447

Accepted: 94%

Enrolled: 13%

Grad in 6 Years: 57%

Returning Freshmen: 75%

Academics:

- -

“[Professors are] attentive,

intelligent, and dedicated

to building their students’

knowledge.”

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UNIVERSITY OF MAINE 433

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

into the College of Education and Human Development; the College of Engineering;

the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; the College of Natural Sciences, Forestry,

and Agriculture; and the Honors College (which now enrolls about 730 students)— as

well as the Maine Business School. Specific general education requirements vary

from college to college, though all students must demonstrate writing proficiency

and earn credits in physical or biological science, human value and social context,

math (including statistics and computer science), and ethics. A capstone experience,

such as a poster presentation or service project, is also mandatory.

UMaine’s engineering programs are some of the strongest and most demanding

on campus. Other best bets include business, forestry, earth and climate sciences,

and nursing. Marine sciences undergrads can spend a semester by the sea at UMaine’s

prominent Darling Marine Center, and UMaine’s

Climate Change Institute is renowned. The most

popular majors include management, mechani-

cal engineering, nursing, and psychology. The

university offers 23 accelerated programs that allow students to earn both a bache-

lor’s and master’s degree in just five or six years, in fields as diverse as economics,

information systems, and special education. Students describe the academic climate

as cooperative and usually relaxed. Forty- four percent of all classes have fewer than

20 students, making it relatively easy to interact with professors. “I didn’t know

professors could be so attentive, intelligent, and dedicated to building their stu-

dents’ knowledge,” attests a biology major.

Research is a key part of an undergraduate education at UMaine and is woven

into many areas of the curriculum, as is real- world experience. First- year students

looking for exposure to research in their first semester can select one of 17 optional,

one- credit Research Learning Experiences in scientific fieldwork, nutrition, market

research, and more. UMaine’s Explorations program lets first- year students work

with professionals in different areas before declaring their degree choices. SPIFFY,

the student investment club, manages a $3.75 million, real- money portfolio. UMaine

students may choose from over 100 study abroad programs in 50 countries.

Most undergrads hail from Maine and other parts of New England (making them

immune to the frigid temperatures). “The common thread among UMaine students

is their kindness,” explains a senior. “In the winter, students will go around scraping

the snow off other students’ cars, even if they don’t know them.” Faced with a declin-

ing youth population in Maine, the university has been working hard to lure out- of-

state students with several programs, including

the Flagship Match program, which allows them

to pay the same in- state tuition they would pay at

their home flagship university. Such efforts are

paying off— out- of- state enrollment is up to

37 percent. Racial diversity still has a long way to

go: Black students account for 2 percent of the

student body, Asian Americans 2 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 5 percent, and multira-

cial students 4 percent. International students add 2 percent. Students describe the

political climate as balanced, with both sides of the aisle well represented. Merit

scholarships average $8,300 a year for qualified students, and 190 athletic scholar-

ships are available in 10 sports.

Thirty- five percent of UMaine students live on campus; the rest seek shelter

in Orono, nearby Bangor, or the sparsely populated area in between. Dorms are

co- ed; some have gyms, computer labs, or apartment- style suites. First- years may

opt to join one of eight living/learning communities organized around themes like

nursing, engineering, and honors. “First- year residence halls are very well kept and

have plenty of room,” reports a student. Meal options in the three main dining halls

(continued)

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (207) 581- 1561

Email Address:

umaineadmissions @ maine

.edu

Strong Programs:

Marine Sciences

Engineering

Business

Forestry

Earth and Climate Sciences

Nursing

Management

Finance

“First- year residence halls

are very well kept and have

plenty of room.”

More than 200

student groups

and organizations

plan plays, carnival

nights, concerts,

and comedy hours.

“[Orono has] cute shops,

cozy libraries, indoor

and outdoor ice skating,

music stores, a variety of

restaurants, and vibrant

museums.”

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434 MANHATTANVILLE COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

receive average reviews. “Campus feels incredibly safe to me,” says one student. “The

dorms are very well- secured and can only be accessed with our student ID cards.”

Despite— or possibly because of— UMaine’s relatively isolated location, the

campus pulses with social life; more than 200 student groups and organizations plan

plays, carnival nights, concerts, and comedy hours, with a different activity offered

each night. Fraternities draw a small portion of students. Between local bars and

clubs and frequent parties at Greek and off- campus houses, the party scene at

UMaine is lively but, according to a senior, “not overwhelming if it’s not your style.”

Underage drinking on campus, though prohibited, is common. Everyone looks for-

ward to Maine Days, a week- long focus on beautification and giving back to campus

that includes service projects, events, campuswide cookouts, and a parade.

A nursing major says the midsized town of Orono and the surrounding area have

much to offer: “cute shops, cozy libraries, indoor and outdoor ice skating, music

stores, bowling, movie theaters, a variety of restaurants, and vibrant museums.” Buses

to Bangor, a fair- sized city 10 minutes away, run every 15 to 20 minutes. UMaine stu-

dents tend to be outdoor enthusiasts, and popular road trips include Acadia National

Park, skiing at Sugarloaf, L.L. Bean’s 24- hour store in Freeport, and the real- life Mount

Katahdin, which appears on L.L. Bean’s logo. Those seeking big- city adventures enjoy

Boston, four hours away, or Montreal, with its lower drinking age.

UMaine is the state’s only Division I school, and athletic events are a big part

of student life. Ice hockey reigns supreme, especially when rivals Boston College,

Boston University, or New Hampshire are in town, and the Black Bears are perennial

champions. Women’s field hockey and basketball have claimed America East con-

ference titles in recent years. Baseball is also competitive. The popular intramural

and club sports programs cover more than 35 sports, from swimming and sailing to

kickball and broomball (ice hockey with a dodgeball and a broom, played with shoes

instead of skates).

UMaine is a medium- sized school with a small- school atmosphere. Combine the

state’s natural beauty with an increased emphasis on top- quality facilities and more

intimate student/faculty interaction, and it’s no surprise that this campus draws

more die- hard “Maine- iaks” each year— more and more of them from other states.

UMaine’s Explorations

program lets first-

year students work

with professionals

in different areas.

Overlaps

University of Rhode

Island, Montana

State, University

of Wyoming,

University of Idaho,

South Dakota

State, University

of New Hampshire,

University

of Vermont,

University of

Southern Maine

If You Apply To ›

Maine: Early action, rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: not considered. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Manhattanville College

2900 Purchase Street, Purchase, NY 10577

One of the few small liberal arts colleges in the NYC area, Manhattanville occupies

a former estate (complete with a castle) and is a quick train ride into Manhattan.

Strong programs include education, psychology, and nursing. An increased emphasis

on athletics is raising the school’s profile. Sixty percent of students are women and

32 percent are Hispanic/Latino.

Founded in 1841 by the Sisters of the Sacred Heart as an all- women’s boarding

school, Manhattanville College today is a private, nondenominational, coeduca-

tional, liberal arts college with a mission to “educate students to be ethical and

socially responsible leaders in a global community.” The Atlas certificate program

Website: www .mville .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

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MANHATTANVILLE COLLEGE 435

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

allows students to set goals, reflect on their academic and cocurricular experiences,

and showcase their work in e-portfolios. But Atlas is just one way Manhattanville

encourages individuality and personal growth. Personal attention is another. “The

best perk of being part of a small school [is that] it allows you to really connect with

your professors,” enthuses a criminal justice major.

Manhattanville College pulled up stakes from its original location on Houston

Street in New York City in the 1950s for a 125- acre estate in Purchase, New York. The

estate is located in wealthy Westchester County, near the city of White Plains— home to

several major corporations, and just 28 miles from the Big Apple. Overlooking the cen-

tral Quadrangle, which was designed by Central Park architect Frederick Law Olmsted,

is the focal point of the campus: Reid Castle, a 19th- century replica of a Norman castle.

The President’s Cottage, built in 1860, has been converted into a modern Center for

Design Thinking complete with a high- tech fabrication lab with 3- D printers.

Manhattanville’s general education program, called GenEd 20, requires course-

work in math, science, fine arts, social science, humanities, global studies, and a

second language. First- year students take a seminar focused on ethics and social

responsibility and two semesters of writing. Seminar professors serve as faculty men-

tors, and all incoming students are also assigned academic advisors and peer mentors

to help ease the transition to college life.

The college’s strongest offerings include education, business (especially manage-

ment and finance), and psychology, while communication studies and performing

arts are also popular. Manhattanville’s School of Education boasts a near- perfect

pass rate for the New York State Teaching Exam.

Enrollment in the recently established School of

Nursing and Health Sciences is growing rapidly,

and the school has added a new major in neuro-

science. A popular major in sport studies pre-

pares students for a wide range of careers, such as

sports business management, sport psychology,

physical education, and sports journalism. Art

and design programs are enhanced by the proximity of New York City’s many muse-

ums and galleries. Students may choose from a bevy of five- year bachelor’s/master’s

degree programs in several fields, cross- register for courses at neighboring Purchase

College, SUNY, or opt to design their own major. In an effort to “adjust the aca-

demic curriculum and overall campus life to the needs of today’s students,”

Manhattanville has recently laid off several tenured and tenure- track faculty mem-

bers and frozen majors with “very low student enrollment.” Majors on the chopping

block have ranged from art history, philosophy, and world religions to French,

Spanish, and museum studies.

Undergraduates enjoy regular access to professors, especially since many classes

have fewer than 20 students. “It’s a great environment to expand your thinking and

knowledge on not only topics within your major but a broad spectrum of subjects,”

notes a musical theater major. Students give high praise to the academic support

services offered by the Academic Resource Center, the Writing Center, the Center

for Student Accommodations, and the Valiant Learning Support Program. Qualified

freshmen may apply for the Castle Scholars Honors Program for a more intensive

curriculum. The college has more than 100 study abroad options in 30 countries,

but only about 3 percent of students participate. Forty- one percent get involved in

undergraduate research. The Center for Career Development helps secure internship

placements at more than 350 locations in and beyond the New York Metro area,

such as Mastercard, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and U.S. Senate offices.

A communication studies major characterizes Manhattanville students as

“diverse, friendly, and chill,” and a classmate adds that the school “was recently

(continued)

Total Enrollment: 1,559

Undergraduates: 1,244

Male/Female: 40/60

Financial Aid: 98%

Pell Grant: 42%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 69%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 3,337

Accepted: 84%

Enrolled: 11%

Grad in 6 Years: 61%

Returning Freshmen: 80%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (914) 323- 5464

Email Address: admissions @

mville .edu

Strong Programs:

Education

Business Management

Finance

Psychology

Communication Studies

Performing Arts

Nursing

Sport Studies

“[Manhattanville is] a

great environment to

expand your thinking and

knowledge on not only

topics within your major

but a broad spectrum of

subjects.”

The Atlas certificate

program allows

students to set

goals, reflect on

their academic

and cocurricular

experiences, and

showcase their work

in e-portfolios.

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436 MANHATTANVILLE COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution.” Indeed, Hispanics/Latinos represent

the largest minority group, at 32 percent, in a college where most undergraduates

(79 percent) are New Yorkers. Black students make up 10 percent of the student

body, Asian Americans 2 percent, and multiracial students 2 percent; 3 percent of

undergrads come from overseas. Students describe themselves as politically aware,

and a junior says, “We are a community of social justice activists.” Forty- two percent

of freshmen are eligible for Pell Grants. While there are no athletic scholarships,

hundreds of merit scholarships averaging $20,689 are awarded to qualified students.

About half of Manhattanville’s students live on campus in one of four residence

halls, which have lounges, communal kitchens, and laundry rooms. Freshmen are

assigned rooms that are “spacious and very comfortable” according to a student.

Campus dwellers can choose from three different meal plans and can use their meal

cards at the main dining hall, The Pub (a deli- type eatery), and vending machines.

“There are plenty of options to choose from,” a junior says. Students report feel-

ing safe on campus, and a digital media production major notes, “The Center for

Inclusion is very, very important. All of the programs they do throughout the year

make you a more educated and informed person.”

The student programming board is working to improve the campus social life

with weekend events such as dance parties, gaming tournaments, comedy and talent

shows, movies, plays, and concerts. With no fraternities or sororities, off- campus

parties are often hosted by sports teams, although students say Manhattanville is no

party school. Every spring, students look forward to Quad Jam, an all- day concert

and carnival. Another favorite tradition is Red Madness, “It’s like Dancing With the

Stars but with our athletic teams,” explains a junior. There’s also a Fall Fest and an

International Bazaar, in which students give cultural performances and share ethnic

foods.

Manhattanville students contribute 30,000 hours of community service each

year through more than 60 local and global programs. Purchase “is a great college

town,” says a first- year. Students frequently take the school’s free bus to White Plains

to enjoy a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops,

and as one student points out, “Manhattanville

is only 30 miles from New York City, so students

can also go to the city for fun.” Road trips include Rye Beach in the warmer months

and upstate New York or Vermont for skiing in the winter.

Manhattanville has invested heavily in athletics in hopes of increasing its vis-

ibility, and one international student notes, “a large portion of our school is made

up of athletes.” Twenty- three Valiant teams (inspired by a 15th- century quote, “To

the valiant of heart, nothing is impossible”) hold their own in the Division III

Skyline Conference. Men’s and women’s basketball and tennis reached recent con-

ference tournaments, and women’s volleyball and softball won their champion-

ships in 2023. Soccer, golf, hockey, and lacrosse are also competitive. Intramural

and club sports, ranging from flag football to beach volleyball, draw about a quarter

of the students.

“Coming to Manhattanville’s culture makes students the best version of them-

selves,” a junior says. The familial atmosphere can get claustrophobic at times, but

for those wishing to be part of a close but growing community where values matter,

Manhattanville may be worth a look.

The student

programming board

is working to improve

the campus social

life with weekend

events such as dance

parties, movies,

plays, and concerts.

“We are a community of

social justice activists.”

Overlaps

Mercy, Pace,

Manhattan

College, Marist,

Iona, Purchase

(SUNY), St. John’s

University (NY),

Sacred Heart

If You Apply To ›

Manhattanville: Early action, rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supple-

ment. Auditions or portfolios are required for performing arts and visual arts applicants.

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MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY 437

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Marquette University

Milwaukee, WI 53201

Marquette is an old- line Roman Catholic, Jesuit university situated near the heart

of downtown Milwaukee. Service learning is a major emphasis. The student body is

mainly from the southern Wisconsin/northern Illinois corridor, and the school draws

a good number of Catholics. Relatively inexpensive, in keeping with its middle- and

working- class roots. Compare to Saint Louis University and Loyola of Chicago.

At Marquette University, students practice what they preach. The college experience

at this Roman Catholic institution includes an emphasis on personal growth, civic

responsibility, and community service. The university continues to look for ways to

affirm its traditions and values drawn from the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), while at the

same time expanding its global focus and connecting students with practical, real-

world experiences. Service learning, which helps students put classroom theories to

the test through volunteer work, is a cornerstone of campus life, helping to shape

well- rounded students. “They all have a special mission or purpose,” says a finance

major. “They all want to make the world move in some way.”

Marquette, which opened its doors in 1881 and takes its name from the 17th-

century Jesuit explorer Jacques Marquette, occupies more than 90 acres of “concrete

with interludes of grass and trees” just a few blocks from downtown Milwaukee.

While offering the advantages of an urban set-

ting, its campus has plenty of open spaces suit-

able for throwing everything from Frisbees to

barbecues. Most of the buildings are relatively

modern, including a new $60 million home for

the College of Business Administration that contains state- of- the- art connective tech-

nology. But Marquette also is the site of the St. Joan of Arc Chapel, which was built

in France 600 years ago and later transported to Wisconsin. It is said to be the only

medieval structure in the Western Hemisphere dedicated to its original purpose.

The Marquette Core Curriculum is structured in three parts. Foundations

courses ground students in the theology, philosophy, and rhetoric of a Jesuit per-

spective. Discovery courses encourage an interdisciplinary approach, as students

take four courses centered around a chosen theme, such as Crossing Boundaries and

Exploring the Unknown. A final Culminating course helps students reflect on and

apply what they’ve learned in the Core. Students who want to get a head start on

the Marquette experience can opt to participate in the five- week Emerging Scholars

Program, which offers credit and noncredit courses.

The most popular majors include biomedical sciences, nursing, psychology, and

exercise physiology. Engineering programs and the social welfare and justice major

are well regarded, as are more specialized majors in operations and supply chain

management and bioinformatics. A senior raves about the school’s Excellence in

Leadership program: “I shadowed industry leaders, worked on a team capstone proj-

ect, interviewed people with crazy titles, went on a week- long retreat. The program

made me grow tremendously!” Through an affiliation with the Milwaukee Institute

of Art and Design, two fine arts minors are available in studio art and graphic design.

Marquette has its own art museum and an active theatre program. Its highly popular

service- learning courses, which draw more than 700 students every semester, con-

nect participants with service opportunities in more than 100 community agencies.

Overall, about three- quarters of Marquette students take part in some type of com-

munity service experience.

Website: www .marquette .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 9,707

Undergraduates: 7,160

Male/Female: 44/56

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 57%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 15,883

Accepted: 87%

Enrolled: 14%

Grad in 6 Years: 81%

Returning Freshmen: 90%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (414) 288- 7302

Email Address: admissions @

marquette .edu

Strong Programs:

Social Welfare and Justice

Engineering

Operations and Supply Chain

Management

Bioinformatics

Biomedical Sciences

Nursing

Psychology

Exercise Physiology

“Very purpose- driven

individuals come to

Marquette. It is competitive

but collaborative.”

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438 MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Fifty percent of classes have fewer than 20 students. “The instruction here is

personalized,” says a senior. “I know my professors and they care about me person-

ally, which I really enjoy.” The school’s Jesuit influence is felt in the classroom, and

the Manresa project, named for the Spanish

town where St. Ignatius spent a year praying

about his vocation, helps professors incorporate

Ignatian teaching into their classes— focusing

particularly on community- based learning and service, social justice, and personal

reflection on faith and vocation.

Thirty percent of Marquette students travel each year for study abroad programs

offered in more than 48 countries, which include 31 short- term, faculty- led options.

The flagship Sibanye Cape Town service learning program in South Africa is espe-

cially popular; participants combine their studies at the University of the Western

Cape with two days of volunteer work per week in areas like education, public health,

and economic development. The university is also home to the Les Aspin Center for

Government in Washington, D.C., which allows students to take courses while par-

ticipating in an internship with a federal government agency. Twenty- one percent

of students assist faculty members with their research, and approximately 275 top

freshmen per year join the University Honors Program, which offers enhanced core

courses, small seminars, and an optional living/learning community.

Most of the undergraduate student body is from the Midwest, 45 percent from

Wisconsin itself; 2 percent are international. In general, Marquette boasts a friendly

collection of traditional, middle- class students. Student religious organizations are

active, and students, faculty, and staff can attend mass every day of the week.

Catholics may be predominant in the student body, but religious practice is left to

the individual. According to one senior, “Very purpose- driven individuals come to

Marquette. It is competitive but collaborative.” Black students make up 5 percent of

the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 16 percent, Asian Americans 6 percent, and

multiracial students 3 percent. Marquette’s successful Educational Opportunity

Program enables low- income, disadvantaged students to have the benefit of a col-

lege education. Merit scholarships averaging $20,078 are available, as are athletic

scholarships in 16 sports.

Forty- one percent of Marquette students make their home on campus; residency

is required for freshmen and sophomores, except for commuters who live within 30

miles with a parent or guardian. All but two residence halls are co- ed, and there are

more than 400 university- owned apartments

(which come with a separate electric bill). Within

the residence halls are six living/learning com-

munities organized around academic and cul-

tural interests. Dining reviews are mostly

positive, with one senior noting, “The new facility in the Commons is great, so

much space for sitting and eating.” Regarding security on this urban campus, a stu-

dent says, “If you use your street smarts and the campus resources in place, you are

entirely safe.” The LGBTQ+ Resource Center supports students with an interest in

LGBTQ and gender identity issues, and students are required to take yearly online

training on sexual violence prevention. “They give us almost too many resources,”

opines a senior.

Social life takes place both on and off campus. “Greek life does not set the tone,”

informs a senior. While Milwaukee is hardly a college town, students say there are

many good things about being there, “from Bradford [beach], Brewers games, con-

certs, and breweries everywhere,” touts a student. An old advertising slogan once

claimed that “Milwaukee Means Beer,” and few Marquette students would disagree.

They report that Marquette is stricter than most universities in enforcing the

“I know my professors

and they care about me

personally.”

A new $60 million

home for the

College of Business

Administration

contains state- of- the-

art connective

technology.

“[National Marquette Day]

gets everyone out and

makes it feel like a big

state school.”

A majority of

students participate

in roughly two dozen

intramural sports

and 44 club teams.

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UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON 439

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

drinking age, especially in the dorms. Fraternities and sororities attract 4 percent of

the men and 10 percent of the women. National Marquette Day, a big pre- game

basketball pep rally, “gets everyone out and makes it feel like a big state school,” says

a senior, “but most of the time [the social scene] is just people having fun all over

campus in smaller groups.”

The Golden Eagles Division I men’s basketball and women’s volleyball teams

are highly competitive in the Big East Conference. A majority of students partici-

pate in roughly two dozen intramural sports and 44 club teams. Sports fans will be

impressed with Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum, home to Marquette basketball and the

NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks. Nature lovers can head to Lake Michigan, a 40- minute walk

from campus, or to Kettle Moraine, a glaciated region ideal for hiking and cross-

country skiing. Chicago is only 95 miles away.

Students at Marquette are engaged not only in their own personal growth but

also in the betterment of their local and global communities through service.

Students say it’s the supportive, familial atmosphere that makes them excited about

those goals, and that makes Marquette what it is. Confirms a senior, “Marquette

students really are a community. Everyone supports everyone else.”

Overlaps

Saint Louis

University, Loyola

University Chicago,

University of

Dayton, DePaul,

UW– Madison,

U of I at

Urbana– Champaign,

University of

Minnesota, U of I at

Chicago

If You Apply To ›

Marquette: Rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

University of Mary Washington

1301 College Avenue, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Situated in historic Fredericksburg, Mary Washington could easily be mistaken for

one of Virginia’s elite private colleges. A public liberal arts and sciences college, it

offers just as much history and tradition albeit for a lower price. Named for George

Washington’s mother and home to one of the few historic preservation programs in

the country.

Strolling among the University of Mary Washington’s elegant buildings of red brick

with white columns has led more than one pleased parent to declare, “Now this is

what a college should look like.” Indeed, for an aura of history and tradition, few

schools stack up to this small college in Fredericksburg, a site of Civil War action

and the boyhood town of George Washington. “Tradition is at the heart of UMW

and is one of the many things that instills a sense of community here,” says a junior.

The campus features classical Jeffersonian buildings, sweeping lawns, brick

walkways, and breathtaking foliage. If the campus architecture reminds some people

of the University of Virginia, it’s no accident:

UMW was the all- female branch of that august

institution before going co- ed in 1970 and cut-

ting its ties in 1972. The campus has undergone

a spate of renovations in the last few years,

including a $24 million overhaul of Seacobeck Hall, a longtime dining facility that

now houses the College of Education, and a significant expansion of the Jepson

Science Center.

Mary Washington has gained a reputation as one of the premier public liberal

arts and sciences colleges in the country. The core curriculum has been updated to

Website: www .umw .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 3,067

Undergraduates: 2,969

Male/Female: 38/62

Financial Aid: 78%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pub $

Student Loans: 54%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 4,709

Accepted: 86%

Enrolled: 19%

Grad in 6 Years: 69%

Returning Freshmen: 83%

Academics:

- - -

“All of the professors I’ve

worked with have challenged

me to grow by expanding

most popular majors.

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490 NEW JERSEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

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weren’t for them, I would not be here. They make it easy to be a minority.” Forty-

three percent of incoming freshmen receive Pell Grants. The university awards merit

scholarships averaging $14,600 to qualified students, and roughly 120 athletic

scholarships are also available.

NJIT’s five residence halls accommodate 24 percent of the students. “Housing is

pretty standard,” reports a student. “You have a choice of suite- style or communal-

style as a freshman.” Upperclassmen move into on- campus fraternity or sorority

houses or nearby off- campus apartments. A new apartment- style residential build-

ing with numerous single rooms and sustainable construction opened in 2022.

Meals in Highlander Commons, the main dining hall, receive average reviews.

Because of its urban location, safety is always a consideration at NJIT, but “public

safety officers are always around,” says an electrical engineering major. A sopho-

more adds, “The school supports speaking up about sexual assault” and provides

ample resources for those who need them.

Newark is hardly a college town, yet it is undergoing a gradual urban renais-

sance, and several good restaurants are within walking distance. “Newark has some-

thing of a social scene during the day; at night, a trip to Jersey City or New York

City is usually a better bet,” explains a senior.

Forty percent of students regularly volunteer in

the community. On campus, 5 percent of both

the men and women join the Greek system. “For

a tech school, the party culture is not bad,”

admits a first- year. HackNJIT, a 24- hour hackathon, is always well attended, and

the Student Activities Council plans events like laser tag, arcade days, and movie

nights. One of the best annual campus events is Spring Fest, which features bands,

intramural games, carnival rides, and a semiformal. Diwali, the Indian festival of

lights, and Chinese New Year also give undergrads pause to party. Another option

is the beach, an hour away. Most students agree that the administration’s strict

alcohol policies are effective.

NJIT students take pride in their athletic prowess, and the school is a member

of the Division I America East Conference, competing mainly against Northeastern

schools like SUNY– Stony Brook and University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Among NJIT’s 17 varsity Highlanders teams, men’s and women’s basketball and

tennis, men’s soccer, and baseball are some of the most competitive. Soccer, basket-

ball, and racquetball are the favorites when it comes to intramurals, and ice hockey,

ultimate Frisbee, and bowling are some of the most active club teams.

“Students here are certainly intelligent and come off as nerds, but everyone has

their own niche,” says a biomedical engineering student. NJIT students choose their

school because they want a top- notch technological education without the topflight

price tag. Academics are the priority here; if the social life is less than electrifying,

students don’t mind. After all, they know highly skilled jobs will beckon after gradu-

ation. Getting through is a challenge, but there’s ample compensation available for

NJIT alums in the technologically dependent workplaces of today— and tomorrow.

A new apartment- style

residential building

with numerous single

rooms and sustainable

construction

opened in 2022.

“We are friendly and

diverse, and most of us

love technology and video

games.”

Overlaps

Rensselaer,

Case Western

Reserve, Virginia

Tech, Colorado

School of Mines,

Stevens Institute

of Technology,

Rutgers, Rowan,

College of New

Jersey

If You Apply To ›

NJIT: Early action I and II, rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application. College of Architecture and Design appli-

cants must submit portfolio of creative work. Please consult NJIT’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding

standardized test requirements.

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UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO 491

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM 87131

BEST

BUY

UNM gives new meaning to cultural diversity. Studies related to Hispanic and

Native cultures are strong, and in a land of picture- perfect sunsets, photography

is a big deal. Even the mascot— Lobos— is Spanish. Technical programs are fueled

by government labs in Albuquerque and Los Alamos, while the business school

produces an outsized percentage of New Mexico’s commercial elite.

The University of New Mexico’s heritage stretches back to 1889 when New Mexico

wasn’t even a state, and the university’s strengths are still rooted in the rich history

of the American Southwest. New Mexico excels in areas such as Latin American and

Southwest studies. Lest you think it is a typical state school, consider that many stu-

dents are commuters or of nontraditional age. UNM also boasts the state’s only law,

medical, and architecture and urban planning schools.

Seated at the foot of the gorgeous Sandia Mountains in the lap of Albuquerque,

the beautifully landscaped campus sports both Spanish and Pueblo Indian archi-

tectural influences, with lots of patios and balconies. The duck pond is a favorite

spot for sunbathing, and the mountains, which rise majestically to the east, are

visible from virtually any point on campus. Newer facilities include the $25 million

McKinnon Center for Management.

UNM offers more than 4,000 courses in 12 colleges and schools, running the

gamut from arts and sciences, education, and engineering to management, fine arts,

and the allied health fields. Academic and general education requirements vary, but

the core curriculum mandates courses in English,

humanities, social and behavioral sciences, phys-

ical and natural sciences, math, fine arts, and a

second language. Those reluctant to specialize

can spend a few semesters in the broad University

College, which offers bachelor of liberal arts and bachelor of integrative studies

degrees. The Honors College awards a bachelor of arts in interdisciplinary liberal

arts. The Tamarind Institute, a nationally recognized center housed at UNM’s

College of Fine Arts, offers training, study, and research in fine- art lithography.

Anthropologists may explore one of New Mexico’s many archaeological sites, and

engineers may join in major solar- energy projects. Other solid programs include

Native American studies, Chicana and Chicano studies, and Latin American studies.

Students may also minor in Navajo language.

The academic climate is “very laid- back and depends on what field of study

you are going into,” according to a senior. Students are quick to help one another

study, and competition for grades is the exception rather than the rule. Roughly

half of classes have fewer than 20 students. As for professors, “I would have to

give them a B,” says a student. “There have been some very good ones and some

that were very knowledgeable but didn’t know how to teach.” Freshman Learning

Communities and academic coaching help ease the transition from high school

to the college environment. Many classes are offered in late afternoon and eve-

ning sessions, and about half of the student body takes advantage of these after-

hours options. Study abroad programs around the world beckon to 18 percent of

undergrads.

By virtue of its location, UNM gives new meaning to cultural diversity, even

though the vast majority (85 percent) of students are state residents. High enroll-

ment of students of color— 51 percent Hispanic/Latino, 6 percent Native American,

Website: www .unm .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 14,930

Undergraduates: 11,911

Male/Female: 42/58

Financial Aid: 74%

Pell Grant: 42%

Expense: Pub $ $

Student Loans: 40%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 13,676

Accepted: 81%

Enrolled: 31%

Grad in 6 Years: 51%

Returning Freshmen: 71%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (505) 277- 8900

Email Address: unmlobos @

unm .edu

Strong Programs:

Latin American Studies

Native American Studies

Business

Studio Art

Anthropology

Engineering

Chicana and Chicano Studies

Navajo Language

“[The academic climate is]

very laid- back and depends

on what field of study you

are going into.”

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492 UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

4 percent Asian American, 3 percent Black, and 4 percent multiracial— reflects this

cultural diversity. One percent of undergraduates are from overseas. UNM hosts a

number of centers and student groups, such as El Centro de la Raza and Nations at

UNM, that support diversity and cultural activities. “Students here are pretty chill,”

says a journalism major. “We hang out and stuff, but for the most part we are focused

on school.” The state- funded New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship covers the full

cost of tuition and required fees for all in- state residents, regardless of income. Merit

and athletic scholarships are available as well, and 42 percent of freshmen qualify

for Pell Grants.

UNM has traditionally been a commuter school (and parking is a perennial

complaint), although first- year students coming from outside a 30- mile radius of

campus are required to live in the residence halls. Currently, a scant 7 percent of

students live on campus. Students say they are happy with the variety of food avail-

able to them, and good lighting, an escort service, and police who patrol around the

clock help them feel safe.

“Social life takes place both on and off campus,” a junior says. Alcohol,

though banned from UNM residence halls, is readily available, according to most

students, especially at Greek parties. Just 3 percent of the men and 3 percent of

the women join the Greek system. Other stu-

dents find their fun off campus in Albuquerque’s

clubs and restaurants. For the more socially con-

scious, the university sponsors Spring Storm, an

outing of roughly 1,000 students who volunteer

around the city on a Saturday. Annual social events include Welcome Back Days

in the fall and Nizhoni Days, a weeklong celebration of Native American culture.

Each spring, the whole campus turns out for a four- day fiesta with food and

live music.

Albuquerque— sometimes referred to as ABQ— is New Mexico’s largest city

(with 560,000 residents), and it offers a variety of cultural attractions, including

the nation’s largest hot air balloon festival, a growing artists’ colony, and concert

tours to charm the ears. Santa Fe is an hour away. Those with cars take advantage

of the state’s natural attractions: the Sandias, the Carlsbad Caverns, and superb

skiing in Taos, as well as excellent hiking and camping opportunities. For the

archaeologically inclined, numerous Spanish and Native American ruins are within

an easy drive.

The UNM Lobos (Spanish for “wolves”) compete in the Division I Mountain

West Conference, and the men’s football and basketball squads usually draw

crowds. The women’s cross- country team is a regular contender for the national

title. Recreational and intramural sports are popular; students flock to flag football,

volleyball, soccer, and basketball.

UNM offers a sun- drenched location that satisfies— precisely because its aca-

demic climate is as relaxed as the rolling desert dunes. “People here are serious and

accepting,” says a senior, “which makes UNM a comfortable environment.”

Solid programs include

Native American

studies, Chicana and

Chicano studies, and

Latin American studies,

and students may minor

in Navajo language.

“People here are serious

and accepting, which

makes UNM a comfortable

environment.”

The university

sponsors Spring Storm,

an outing of roughly

1,000 students who

volunteer around the

city on a Saturday.

Overlaps

Arizona State, CU

Boulder, Eastern

New Mexico,

Highlands, New

Mexico State,

University of Texas

at El Paso

If You Apply To ›

UNM: Rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Does not accept the Common Application.

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NEW YORK UNIVERSITY 493

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

New York University

22 Washington Square, New York, NY 10012

From safety school to global brand, NYU’s rise has been breathtaking. The siren song

of Greenwich Village now extends to the Tandon School of Engineering in Brooklyn,

degree- granting campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, and a dozen global academic

centers around the world. Major draws include the renowned Tisch School of the

Arts and the best undergraduate business school north of Penn.

With the world at its doorstep, New York University invites its student body to jump

right in. Firmly planted in the heart of Greenwich Village, one of the most eclectic

and energizing neighborhoods in New York City, NYU has set its sights on becoming

the world’s first truly global university. Its growing student body, burgeoning new

facilities, and multiple opportunities for high- level internships and research projects

have made it a top option for a rising number of students. “Our dorms are like city

apartments, and our walk to class is on city sidewalks and across busy streets,” says a

business and political economy major. “Going to NYU prepares students to live and

work in the real world.”

It doesn’t get more real world than the venue that NYU has called home since its

founding in 1831. NYU has campuses and centers throughout the city but is primarily

situated on Washington Square. Trendy shops, galleries, clubs, bars, and eateries

crowd neighboring blocks; SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown are just blocks away.

Academic buildings— both modern and historic— blend with 19th- century brick

townhouses surrounding Washington Square Park (the closest thing NYU has to a

quad). NYU’s library is one of the largest open-

stack facilities in the country, with millions of

volumes. Kimmel Center for University Life

houses meeting space for hundreds of student

organizations, plus areas for the frequent recruitment fairs and lectures from national

and international leaders. It also holds the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts’

860- seat theater, which is the largest performing arts facility south of 42nd Street. The

brand- new, $1.2 billion Paulson Center is a massive, 735,000- square- foot multiuse

facility on Mercer Street. Completed in spring 2023, the complex features classrooms,

practice and performance spaces for the drama and music programs, a world- class

sports center complete with a six- lane pool, housing for 400 freshmen and 42 faculty

members, dining facilities, a Commons for meet- ups and studying, and more.

The city scene is central to the NYU experience. So, too, is the wide range of

academic programs. Under the College Core Curriculum, freshmen and sophomores

take courses including foreign language, expository writing, foundations of con-

temporary culture, and foundations of scientific inquiry. The language offerings

go far beyond the typical Spanish- French- German— among the choices are Arabic,

Cantonese, Hindi, Modern Irish, Swahili, and Tagalog— and NYU operates a lan-

guage exchange program with Columbia University as well. The Tisch School of the

Arts trained such famed artists as Martin Scorsese, Spike Lee, Donald Glover, and

Maggie Rogers, and current undergrads continue to win many national student film-

maker awards. Tisch also boasts excellent drama, dance, photography, and televi-

sion departments, and it’s not uncommon to see students who haven’t yet finished

B.F.A. degrees performing in Broadway shows.

Wall Street’s future bull and bear wranglers hang out at the Stern School of

Business, where they benefit from unique interdisciplinary majors such as business

and political economy and business, technology, and entrepreneurship. The Leslie

Website: www .nyu .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 50,627

Undergraduates: 28,354

Male/Female: 41/59

Financial Aid: 57%

Pell Grant: 18%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 33%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 100,662

Accepted: 13%

Enrolled: 49%

Grad in 6 Years: 87%

Returning Freshmen: 95%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (212) 998- 4500

Email Address: admissions @

nyu .edu

Strong Programs:

Film and Television

Visual and Performing Arts

Business

Economics

Journalism

Politics

Global Liberal Studies

Nursing

Engineering

“Going to NYU prepares

students to live and work in

the real world.”

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494 NEW YORK UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

eLab also provides space for aspiring entrepreneurs. Another favorite department

among students (and the New York corporations who recruit them after graduation)

is accounting, known for its high job- placement rate. In the College of Arts and

Science, economics, English, journalism, history, politics, and global liberal stud-

ies win the highest marks from students. The Tandon School of Engineering, the

Steinhardt School, the Silver School of Social Work, the College of Nursing, and the

School of Professional Studies offer a bevy of career- based programs, including engi-

neering, education, media, nutrition, and real estate. Steinhardt’s offerings in music,

music theatre, and music business are notable. Across the university, the most pop-

ular majors are business, nursing, economics, and theatre. The Gallatin School of

Individualized Study provides flexible schedules and freedom from requirements for

those wishing to engage in independent study or develop their own programs. For

those tempted to linger around the Village for more than four years, there’s a seven-

year dental program and several five- year bachelor’s/master’s programs.

Finding a cheap New York apartment may be easier than sailing through NYU’s

challenging academics. Regardless of major, everyone is very focused on career

preparation— it’s never enough to just concentrate on your classes. “It’s common for

students to take on difficult courseloads, along

with a job or internship,” explains a film and

television major. Despite the university’s mam-

moth size, 58 percent of classes taken by under-

graduates have fewer than 20 students. Graduate

students might lead foreign language sections, writing workshops, and the recita-

tions that accompany lectures, but students still say teaching is usually top- notch

and professors are reasonably accessible. “Surprisingly, most of our introductory

courses are taught by really great and well- known professors,” says one student.

Point to a spot on a world map and you’ll likely hit a country hosting under-

graduates from NYU, which sends more of them abroad than any other school. “At

NYU, studying away is not a matter of ‘if,’ but ‘where,’” says a junior. In addition

to its campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, the university has 12 academic sites

in cities from Buenos Aires and Prague to Sydney and Tel Aviv, as well as exchange

agreements with universities in other locations throughout the world. More than

half of NYU undergrads study abroad, sometimes as early as their freshman year

through the university’s Liberal Studies Core. Locally, internships range from jobs

on Wall Street to assignments with film industry giants. The career center is “amaz-

ingly personal and well run,” says an econ major, and has thousands of listings for

on- campus jobs, full- time jobs, and internships. Students qualifying for freshman

honors seminars study in small classes under top faculty and eminent visiting pro-

fessors. An annual undergraduate research conference at the College of Arts and

Science gives students the chance to present findings from their research.

An international politics major says NYU students are “high- achieving individuals,

cosmopolitan, independent, self- driven, and confident.” Thanks in part to the universi-

ty’s investment in student housing, 67 percent of undergraduates now come from out-

side New York State, including a substantial

26 percent from outside the United States. In-

staters hail primarily from the city and nearby sub-

urbs. Black students make up 8 percent of

undergrads, Asian Americans 20 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 17 percent, and multiracial

students 4 percent. On this generally liberal campus, social justice, immigration policy,

the Israeli- Palestinian conflict, and rights of all kinds— LGBTQ, animal, human, and

workers’— are important, students say. Although most financial aid is need- based, merit

awards averaging $28,500 are available; athletic scholarships are not.

Whereas NYU students once had to fend for themselves in New York’s outrageous

“Most of our introductory

courses are taught by really

great and well- known

professors.”

Despite the

university’s mammoth

size, 58 percent of

classes taken by

undergraduates

have fewer than

20 students.

“Housing is lovely although

expensive, like everything

else in Manhattan.”

NYU’s Skirball Center

for the Performing

Arts is the largest

performing arts

facility south of

42nd Street.

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NEW YORK UNIVERSITY 495

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

housing market, the university now guarantees four years of housing to all fresh-

men (and most transfers) who seek it. More than 20 residence halls, ranging from

old hotels to a converted monastery, provide a wide range of accommodations. Most

rooms have private baths and are larger, cleaner, newer, and better equipped than

many city apartments, enticing 36 percent of students to stay in campus- owned hous-

ing. Opines a senior, “Housing is lovely although expensive, like everything else in

Manhattan.” First years reside largely in first- year residence halls, many of which have

themed floors, and rooms are assigned by lottery each spring. The university provides

free shuttle buses to dorms that are farther uptown or downtown. The dining halls

offer extensive choices— from wraps to sushi to a dedicated kosher eatery. “The dining

halls really try to accommodate everyone,” says one student. Of course, downtown’s

array of ethnic restaurants also offers a variety of food at cheap prices.

Because NYU is large and fairly decentralized, the Student Resource Center helps

students navigate university resources and services. The university’s Wellness Exchange

provides students with a hotline that connects them with professionals who can help

them address daily challenges or crises they may

encounter, and S.P.A.C.E. (Sexual Misconduct

Prevention, Assistance, Counseling, and Education)

provides comprehensive resources and support.

Students also meet with academic advisors— usually professors in their major

department— at least once a semester. For concerned parents and students, NYU hosts a

series of workshops on keeping safe, and programs like the NYU Trolley and Safe Ride

Van Service provide door- to- door service for students until 3:00 a.m. “I always feel safe,”

says a linguistics major. “I can’t walk more than one block without seeing an NYU secu-

rity officer or an NYPD car just patrolling the area.”

NYU’s social life is divided between the campus and the city. “Students can be

found all over the Village and NYC enjoying one of the most vibrant social scenes on

the planet,” enthuses a romance languages and psychology major. Many students

march in the city’s Halloween Parade, which takes over the Village, while most fall

and spring weekends find a city- sponsored street fair somewhere nearby. On campus,

there are concerts, movies, fraternity and sorority events (only 2 percent of the men

and 4 percent of the women go Greek), and more than 300 clubs and organizations.

Underage students caught with alcohol in public areas in the dorms may lose their

housing. The rest take their chances with the notoriously strict bouncers at bars and

clubs around Manhattan. The springtime Strawberry Festival includes free berries,

cotton candy, outdoor concerts, and carnival amusements. The Violet Ball, a dinner/

dance held each fall in the atrium of Bobst Library, offers an excuse to get dressed up.

“We graduate at Yankee Stadium, which is incredible,” cheers a senior.

While sports have not traditionally been a big emphasis at NYU, successful

Violets programs include women’s golf (recent national champions), volleyball, and

basketball, as well as men’s and women’s fencing and swimming and diving, all of

which compete in Division III. Roughly one- third of undergrads participate in intra-

mural sports, which include flag football, bowling, and indoor cricket.

The heartbeat of New York City thumps day and night; NYU students thrive on

all that energy and know how to capture it in their studies and social lives. “To be

an NYU student is to be part college student, part New Yorker,” a senior says. “Don’t

come here if you’re not up to working hard and moving fast.”

“We graduate at Yankee

Stadium, which is

incredible.”

The university now

guarantees four years

of housing to all

freshmen (and most

transfers) who seek it.

Many students march

in the city’s Halloween

Parade, which takes

over the Village.

Overlaps

University of

Southern California,

Cornell University,

Boston University,

Northeastern,

Columbia, Carnegie

Mellon, University

of Pennsylvania, UC

Berkeley

If You Apply To ›

NYU: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Portfolio or audition required for some

programs. Please consult NYU’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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496 UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA ASHEVILLE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

University of North Carolina Asheville

1 University Heights, Asheville, NC 28804

BEST

BUY

Located in a picturesque mountain setting outside the progressive and arts- minded

city from which it takes its name, UNC Asheville is North Carolina’s contribution to

the tradition of “public liberal arts” colleges. With 2,700 full- time, degree- seeking

students, it is about half the size of William & Mary and somewhat smaller than Mary

Washington. By Southern standards, a progressive university in a progressive city.

The University of North Carolina Asheville offers all of the perks that are generally

associated with pricier private institutions: rigorous academics, small classes, and a

beautiful setting. And it does it for a fraction of the cost. This public liberal arts and

sciences university continues to integrate experiential learning into its traditional

curriculum, emphasizing undergraduate research, internships, and service- learning

experiences. According to a mass communication major, “We definitely lean into

the culture of being a mountain school, a smaller school, and a liberal arts school.”

Located in the heart of North Carolina’s gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains, the

360- acre campus lies in the middle of one million acres of federal and state forest

near the tallest mountain in the East and the most heavily visited national park in

the country. The campus was built in the 1960s

when the university, whose origins go back to

1927, joined the UNC system. Much of the brick

architecture reflects the style of that decade,

although many of the buildings have been added within the past several years,

including a high- tech science and multimedia building. The Botanical Gardens at

Asheville, adjacent to the main campus, features thousands of native plants and

trees and serves as a wildlife refuge and study center for biology students. The STEAM

Studio, located just off campus, brings together science, engineering, and art stu-

dents in one collaborative, state- of- the- art makerspace. Owen Hall, housing the art,

art history, and new media departments, earned LEED Silver certification.

Asheville’s general education curriculum, the Liberal Arts Core, is required of all

undergraduates. In addition to first- year and senior- capstone liberal arts seminars,

students must take courses in eight areas spanning the humanities, sciences, and

mathematics, as well as two Diversity Intensives, one of which must focus on U.S.

racial and ethnic diversity. The most popular majors at Asheville are psychology,

environmental studies, mass communication, health and wellness promotion, busi-

ness, and biology. Students can take advantage of Asheville’s strengths as a global

source of information for climate and atmospheric sciences and as a center of dig-

ital imaging, music, and fine arts and studio crafts. “UNC Asheville is a very envi-

ronmentally friendly, artsy school,” says a management major. A joint B.S. degree

in engineering (with a concentration in mechatronics) with North Carolina State

University is the only such program in the state and is one of the fastest- growing

majors.

Courses are challenging, but “UNC Asheville is laid- back and slower paced,

which might be different for students who are used to competition and a faster-

paced lifestyle,” comments an economics major. Seventy- two percent of all classes

have fewer than 20 students, and a number of them have service- learning com-

ponents. As a French and political science double major points out, “Our facul-

ty’s mentorship and close relationships are especially evident in undergraduate

research.” Research is indeed a key emphasis here: Asheville founded the National

Conference on Undergraduate Research and has hosted the conference five times.

Website: www .unca .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 2,519

Undergraduates: 2,519

Male/Female: 41/59

Financial Aid: 88%

Pell Grant: 31%

Expense: Pub $

Student Loans: 58%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 4,278

Accepted: 74%

Enrolled: 16%

Grad in 6 Years: 59%

Returning Freshmen: 69%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (828) 251- 6481

Email Address: admissions @

unca .edu

Strong Programs:

Atmospheric Sciences

Visual Arts

Music

Psychology

Environmental Studies

Mass Communication

Health and Wellness

Promotion

Biology

“UNC Asheville is a very

environmentally friendly,

artsy school.”

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UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA ASHEVILLE 497

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About 60 percent of Asheville students will have an undergraduate research experi-

ence by graduation. The UNC Asheville honors program offers special courses— as

well as cultural and social opportunities— to motivated students who can make the

grade. Study abroad is an option too, in programs available in more than 50 coun-

tries. “Career advising is strong and they constantly reach out to students about

future plans,” cheers a senior.

The head count at Asheville has risen steadily over the past decade, but only

12 percent of students come from out of state and another 1 percent from abroad.

(The state limits its out- of- state admits to 25 percent.) Asheville has shed its early

reputation as a hippie haven, but students still value individualism: “We encourage

everyone to be themselves and pursue their own interests,” says a psychology major.

Currently, the student body is 5 percent Black, 9 percent Hispanic/Latino, 2 percent

Asian American, and 5 percent multiracial, but Asheville is making special efforts to

bring more students from underrepresented groups to campus. Students say the

campus is home to a strong LGBTQ community, and a substantial number of trans-

fer students add their own brand of diversity. Students tend to be progressively

minded, and issues of environmental sustainability and racial and gender equity get

particular attention on campus. Thirty- one percent of current freshmen are Pell-

eligible. Asheville offers more than 200 athletic scholarships, as well as merit schol-

arships averaging $2,700.

Forty- eight percent of the students live in the residence halls, which offer single

and double rooms as well as suite- style options. “Housing is very nice and conve-

nient but expensive,” says a junior. Residential learning communities offer special

residential and academic options for students

with similar interests, such as the Cloud (for

computer science and atmospheric sciences

majors) and the Transfer Learning Community

(for transfer students). For meals, students may

eat dining- hall fare or grab something quick at retail outlets around campus, includ-

ing local cuisine. A sophomore says, “Our campus security is excellent. We have an

on- campus police force that patrols regularly around campus.”

Social life at Asheville is fairly low- key. Greek life is not an influential presence,

with only 2 percent of the men and 1 percent of the women joining up. Most parties

take place off campus, especially since RAs tightly monitor underage drinking in the

dorms. “There is no tolerance for unsafe, underage, or unwise drinking,” says a stu-

dent. There are more than 60 student organizations, including the student newspa-

per, the Blue Banner. Several campuswide events bring the school together each year,

including the Turning of the Maples in October (featuring apple cider, maple cook-

ies, and pumpkin bowling on the quad), homecoming, and a spring lawn party.

During Greenfest, explains a student, the campus community gathers to “do out-

door service work on campus and attend informative talks about environmental

issues and other events like a farm- to- table dinner.”

The city of Asheville, long a haven for artists and an increasingly popular retire-

ment destination, offers a tame but inviting nightlife, with popular hangouts like

the Orange Peel, the Grey Eagle, and Isis Music Hall, and the city has been named

Beer City USA several times. Asheville is also

home to a bevy of street performers, outdoor

music festivals, outstanding restaurants, and live

entertainment events. For the many Asheville

students with a hankering for the great outdoors, the university is surrounded by the

Blue Ridge Mountains and the Smokies, where students can hike and rock climb;

water buffs can go rafting and kayaking on the nearby rivers. Preorientation wilder-

ness trips and urban excursions help build friendships among freshmen. Those with

Owen Hall, housing

the art, art history,

and new media

departments,

earned LEED Silver

certification.

“Our faculty’s mentorship

and close relationships

are especially evident in

undergraduate research.”

During Greenfest,

the campus

community gathers

to do outdoor service

work on campus.

“Everyone who works here

is dedicated to the student

experience in some way.”

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498 UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL

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cars can head to Greenville and Charlotte, one and two hours away, respectively.

Real big- city action takes extra effort, though, since Atlanta is a four- hour trek.

The Division I Bulldogs boast Big South Conference teams in 16 sports. Men’s

and women’s basketball, along with men’s and women’s tennis are among the most

successful. “We have a great rivalry with Western Carolina,” says a health and well-

ness major. Intramurals and club sports are at least as popular as the varsity sports

(especially ultimate Frisbee and basketball), as are outdoor adventure trips and the

on- campus challenge course and bike shop.

“Everyone who works here is dedicated to the student experience in some way,”

says a senior. “That means you won’t be a number.” Indeed, all the ingredients for a

superior college experience lie in wait at Asheville: strong academics, dedicated pro-

fessors, and an administration that continues to push for excellence. It’s a place to

get the kind of liberal arts education usually associated with private colleges— but at

the cost of a public university.

Overlaps

Furman, College

of Wooster, New

College of Florida,

St. Mary’s College

of Maryland,

Christopher

Newport, William &

Mary, University of

Mary Washington,

Elon

If You Apply To ›

UNC Asheville: Early decision I and II, rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please con-

sult UNC Asheville’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Jackson Hall, CB 2200, Chapel Hill, NC 27599

Close on the heels of UVA as the South’s most prestigious public university. With

82 percent of the spots in each incoming class reserved for in- staters, admission is

selective but not impossible for out- of- staters who aren’t 6

′

″

with a 43- inch vertical

jump. But they keep trying by the thousands. Chapel Hill is a quintessential college

town.

Welcome to “the Southern part of heaven,” a place where the sky is Carolina blue

and the academics are red- hot. As the flagship campus of the state university system,

the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has earned its place among the

South’s most prestigious universities. The atmosphere here is a unique brand of

Southern, a rowdy mixture of hard work, sports fanaticism, progressive social values,

and traditions that seems to attract bright, serious, and fun- loving students from

everywhere.

Chartered in 1789, UNC was the first public university in the United States to

open its doors, and North Carolinians still take pride in Carolina’s identity as “the

University of the people.” UNC’s gorgeous and

comfortable campus occupies 730 acres lush

with trees and lawns and brick- paved walkways.

The architecture ranges from Palladian, Federal,

and Georgian to postmodern, with red brick the prevailing motif. The Old Well, the

university’s symbol, stands at the northern end of the campus.

The university’s IDEAs in Action general education curriculum places greater

emphasis on the first- year experience, interdisciplinary learning, undergraduate

research, and out- of- class experiences like internships and study abroad. The curric-

ulum centers on developing skills in nine “focus capacities”— categories of courses

that range from quantitative reasoning to ethical and civic values. In their first

Website: www .unc .edu

Location: Small Town

Public

Total Enrollment: 26,214

Undergraduates: 19,162

Male/Female: 39/61

Financial Aid: 52%

Pell Grant: 19%

Expense: Pub $

Student Loans: 33%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 57,221

Accepted: 17%

Enrolled: 46%

Grad in 6 Years: 91%

Returning Freshmen: 96%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

“The majority of professors

go out of their way to help

students.”

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UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL 499

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year, students take a College Thriving course, which eases the transition to college

life. They also choose either a First- Year Seminar on a specialized topic, such as the

Interplay of Music and Physics, or a First- Year Launch course, like Econ 101 or Bio

101, which provides an introduction to a major. Required, cross- disciplinary Ideas,

Information, and Inquiry courses, which focus on broad themes like Understanding

Health and Happiness, are team- taught by faculty members from three different

fields to expose students to diverse academic perspectives.

Chapel Hill offers more than 75 undergraduate degree programs. Some of the

strongest are communication and media studies, business administration, chemis-

try, sociology, English, global studies, and philosophy. Other popular majors include

biology, psychology, economics, and political science. The university has developed

a broad range of opportunities to help students become entrepreneurial, including

an entrepreneurship minor and the Carolina Challenge, a student- run competition

that awards up to $50,000 in prizes each year for the best business plan. Computer

science and neuroscience are some of the fastest- growing majors. Biomedical and

health sciences engineering, a joint- degree program with North Carolina State

University, is the only option for those seeking an engineering major.

“Although this is a prestigious university, I don’t feel a sense of competition at

all,” says one sophomore. Academic and social life are governed by a student- run

honor system. Forty- four percent of classes enroll fewer than 20 students, and access

to registration is based on seniority. If you get

closed out of a class, “be persistent,” advises a

first- year. The Carolina faculty is, for the most

part, top- notch. Professors keep regular office

hours, and a history major says, “The majority of

professors go out of their way to help students and make sure that they are learning

everything they possibly can.” Regarding career preparation, a senior cheers, “Our

career services department on campus puts effort into each and every student.”

Undergraduate research is prevalent in all disciplines, and many students pres-

ent their findings at professional conferences, publish results in academic journals,

and win fellowships to support summer research in the United States and abroad.

For those tired of the classroom rush, Research Triangle Park, a nearby research and

corporate community and home of the National Humanities Center, employs many

students as research assistants. UNC offers more than 400 study abroad programs in

approximately 70 countries. Summer School, including the three- week “Maymester,”

provides undergraduates with diverse course options, some with off- campus travel

or research opportunities not possible during the academic year. One- third of the

students are involved in community service, many through a service- learning pro-

gram for which they receive academic credit. Additionally, UNC’s honors program

is nationally recognized.

“Carolina students are proud to attend this school, and they bleed Carolina

blue,” says one Tar Heel. Out- of- state admission is extremely tough; by statute,

82 percent of first- year undergraduates must be North Carolina residents. Five per-

cent of all undergrads come from foreign coun-

tries. Big social and political issues on campus

include multiculturalism, gender roles, and reli-

gious issues. Black students account for 8 percent

of the student body, Asian Americans 14 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 10 percent, and

multiracial students 5 percent. Women outnumber men on campus 3 to 2, in part

because engineering is offered down the road at NC State. UNC awards a limited

number of highly competitive academic scholarships, along with more than 600

athletic scholarships in 26 sports. What’s more, the university is need- blind in

admissions and commits to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all

(continued)

Admissions: (919) 966- 3621

Email Address: unchelp @

admissions .unc .edu

Strong Programs:

Communication and Media

Studies

Business Administration

Chemistry

Sociology

English

Global Studies

Philosophy

Biology

“Carolina students are

proud to attend this school,

and they bleed Carolina

blue.”

In their first year,

students take a

College Thriving

course, which eases

the transition to

college life.

“The pickiest of the picky

could be happy with

Carolina dining services.”

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500 UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

admitted students— one of only two public universities in the U.S. to do so (see also

University of Virginia). The Carolina Covenant program, which has served as a

national model to universities seeking to increase socioeconomic diversity, offers

scholarships, grants, and work- study as well as extensive mentoring and other sup-

port to qualifying students who are at or below 200 percent of the poverty level.

UNC provides free tuition to North Carolina residents whose families make less than

$80,000 per year.

New first- year students are required to live on campus, and 44 percent of all

undergraduates live in university housing, which “is an invaluable part of the expe-

rience,” according to one student. Housing on the north side of campus offers old

and recently renovated dorms; the south side offers several new housing options,

which are a 15- minute hike from academic buildings (not to worry— there’s a free

campus shuttle). “The pickiest of the picky could be happy with Carolina dining

services,” says a first- year. Campus security is praised for its constant presence.

“Sexual assault has become a very visible issue in the sense that people are more

willing to talk about it,” comments a sociology major, adding that the university has

“taken steps to address the issue.” UNC has also been busy in recent years taking

down statues and renaming buildings associated with slavery.

“‘College town’ in the dictionary should show a picture of Chapel Hill,” boasts

one senior. Franklin Street, the main drag in town that runs across the northern

boundary of campus, offers ethnic restaurants, ice- cream parlors, coffeehouses, veg-

etarian eateries, bakeries, a dance club, a gener-

ous supply of bars, and the Varsity movie theater.

Fraternities and sororities may account for only

14 percent of the men and 16 percent of the

women, but they exert an influence far beyond their numbers. “Fraternities are a

social hub, and many students flock to their off- campus parties,” confirms one stu-

dent. Between Greek life and other campus- sponsored activities, “There are always

five or six things happening on any given day,” says a political science major.

FallFest kicks off the school year with an emphasis on the idea that you don’t have

to drink to have fun. The annual Carolina Jazz Festival and Halloween Celebration

on Franklin Street draw enthusiastic crowds. And, as a senior explains, “We also

have other fun traditions: students taking a sip from the Old Well, climbing up the

Bell Tower, and streaking before finals (though we’re not supposed to talk about that

last one).”

Student and alumni enthusiasm for Tar Heel athletics is legendary, and the

word “popular” doesn’t do justice to the basketball games. A contest between Tar

Heel hoopsters and NC State makes any Carolina fan’s heart beat faster, but Duke

takes the prize as the most reviled of all devils. The Tar Heels, national runners- up

in 2022, play in the 21,750- seat Smith Center, named for the late coach Dean

Smith, one of the winningest college basketball coaches of all time. Women’s field

hockey has won four national championships in the last five years, and women’s

lacrosse claimed the national title in 2022. Men’s and women’s soccer and tennis

are also highly competitive. Extensive intramural and club sports programs draw

heavy participation; intramural basketball and soccer alone each boast rosters of

more than 200 teams. Both men’s and women’s ultimate Frisbee were national

champions in 2023. Those who crave fresh air can take advantage of the Outdoor

Education Center’s mountain bike trails, rope courses, and one of the longest

double zip lines on the East Coast.

As a popular saying goes, “If God is not a Tar Heel, why is the sky Carolina

blue?” It’s a cute turn of phrase but also points to the passion that is well- known in

these parts. As one of the best college buys in the country, UNC- Chapel Hill gives

students everything they want, both academically and socially. Despite efforts by

UNC offers more

than 400 study

abroad programs

in approximately

70 countries.

“There are always five or six

things happening on any

given day.”

A contest between

Tar Heel hoopsters

and NC State makes

any Carolina fan’s

heart beat faster.

Overlaps

University of

Virginia, Duke,

UC Berkeley,

UCLA, University

of Michigan,

North Carolina

State, Vanderbilt,

Appalachian State

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UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA WILMINGTON 501

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Philistine forces in the state legislature to meddle in campus affairs for political pur-

poses, North Carolina’s flagship university, with its 234- year history, continues to

sustain an atmosphere of extreme pride, a love of tradition, and monumental school

spirit. One first- year, full of that school spirit, says, “Southern hospitality blended

with a high level of thinking, an overwhelming dose of friendliness and pep, and a

spectacularly gorgeous campus make Chapel Hill my favorite place in the world.”

If You Apply To ›

UNC at Chapel Hill: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult UNC

at Chapel Hill’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, NC 28403

Still overshadowed by Chapel Hill and the other biggies in the strong UNC system

but making a name for itself. Strong in marine biology and other sciences. You won’t

see the Seahawks in the NCAA Final Four anytime soon, but you will be able to get

to know your professors. Students tend to think of themselves as “hardworking

beachgoers,” and only 12 percent hail from outside North Carolina.

At the University of North Carolina Wilmington, students enjoy extensive under-

graduate research opportunities, a slate of solid sciences, and a close- knit commu-

nity of like- minded individuals who like their modern academics mixed with a bit

of old- fashioned Southern charm. The university’s proximity to the ocean provides

motivated students with ample opportunities for fun in the sun and a natural lab

for the school’s stellar marine biology program. Whether diving into the sea or into

their studies, UNCW students are filled with school spirit.

Founded as Wilmington College in 1947, UNCW moved to its present location in

the heart of New Hanover County in 1961. The 660- acre campus is only minutes from

Wrightsville Beach and historic downtown Wilmington and features Georgian archi-

tecture and designated conservation areas. These

conservation areas are significant zones of natural

beauty with their longleaf pines, oaks, dogwoods,

and native magnolias. Notable campus landmarks

include the clock tower, the Leutze Hall portico, Chancellor’s Walk, and the Campus

Life complex, which serves as the hub of the university community. In the past few

years, UNCW has undertaken more than $450 million in campus construction with

numerous buildings being built or restored, parking lots and decks finished. Other

completed projects include four residence halls, one dining hall, a film studies build-

ing, and a coastal engineering building.

UNCW’s University Studies curriculum requires students to complete coursework

in three main categories— Foundations, Building Competencies, and Approaches and

Perspectives— and to complete one approved Explorations Beyond the Classroom

experience, such as an internship or a study abroad program. Freshmen benefit from

a slate of special programs, including a required two- day orientation and a first-

year seminar. Each seminar is limited to 25 students and most are connected with

Seahawk Links, older students who help with the transition into UNCW life. About

a third of incoming freshmen sign up for learning communities, taking courses

Website: www .uncw .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 12,991

Undergraduates: 11,709

Male/Female: 37/63

Financial Aid: 49%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pub $

Student Loans: 34%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 16,860

Accepted: 69%

Enrolled: 20%

Grad in 6 Years: 74%

Returning Freshmen: 83%

Academics:

- -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (910) 962- 3243

Email Address: admissions @

uncw .edu

Strong Programs:

Marine Biology

Chemistry

Ecology

“Our university places a

large emphasis on lab and

fieldwork.”

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502 UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA WILMINGTON

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together related to an academic or personal interest. “My learning community was a

safe space to explore college with built- in buddies!” recalls a junior.

Some of the most popular majors are nursing, business administration, commu-

nication studies, psychology, and biology. The university’s strengths lie in the nat-

ural sciences, especially marine biology, chemistry, ecology, and other disciplines

that form the core of the marine sciences. “Our university places a large emphasis on

lab and fieldwork,” says one geography major. Outside of the sciences, UNCW offers

solid programs in film studies and creative writing. Newer offerings include majors

in respiratory therapy, digital arts, and coastal engineering. Freshmen are taught

by full professors, and a social work major says, “Professors work hard to engage

students and help students succeed, even during challenging times.” Enrollments in

introductory courses sometimes swell to more than 100, but 41 percent of all classes

have fewer than 20 students. New majors include respiratory therapy, cybersecurity,

and intelligent systems engineering. The coastal engineering program, the first of

its kind in the nation, provides unique opportunities for research, including a new

state- of- the- art wave flume.

A veteran- friendly campus, more than 2,300 military- affiliated students are

enrolled at UNCW, and Veterans Hall, a 145,000- square- foot facility housing the

College of Health and Human Services and the Office of Military Affairs, is currently

the only building in the United States located on a university or college campus

named in honor of all veterans. For students yearning to experience new vistas,

UNCW offers hundreds of approved study abroad trips in more than 50 countries

and consistently sends roughly 10 percent of students abroad each year. Students in

the UNCW Honors College engage in living/learning communities, advanced

coursework, and experiential seminars; honors students also complete a senior

honors capstone research project.

According to a marketing major, UNCW students are “hardworking beachgoers.

Every student here is hardworking and motivated but enjoys a little time off as well.”

Eighty- six percent of undergrads are native to North Carolina, and 1 percent are

international. Lack of diversity is a frequent stu-

dent complaint. Black students represent 4 per-

cent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos

8 percent, Asian Americans 2 percent, and multi-

racial students 3 percent. Students describe a

“relaxed” balance of liberal and conservative political views. “We’re a coastal school,

so many students are passionate about clean- water programs and recycling,” reports

a senior. Outstanding students can vie for nearly 700 donor- funded scholarships.

Under UNCW’s Support Opportunity Access Responsibility program, high- achieving

students from low- income families may receive grants and scholarships equaling the

cost of in- state tuition and fees, in addition to federal loans or work- study funding

if needed.

All freshmen and sophomores (except commuters who live at home with a

parent or guardian) are required to reside on campus. Options range from traditional

freshman dorms to sophomore suites and apartments for upperclassmen. Most stu-

dents who move off campus stay within a mile or so of the school. Campus eateries

include Wagoner Hall, Dub’s Café, the Shore, the Hawks Nest food court, and the

Hub; students give the food positive reviews. A public health major comments, “The

quality of the meals at UNCW is high— they are always tasty and fill me up.” Students

praise campus police for keeping the area secure and the CARE office for helping to

combat sexual assault on campus.

When it comes to social life, a junior asks, “How much better can a social scene

get than the beach?” Indeed, the beach is the place to be for many popular events,

such as the Beach Blast party the first week of school. Students also look forward

(continued)

Film Studies

Creative Writing

Nursing

Business Administration

Communication Studies

The coastal

engineering program

provides unique

opportunities for

research, including

a new state- of- the-

art wave flume.

“From the many bars to the

many beaches, we have

hundreds of social spots to

hang out.”

Students look

forward to the

annual Oozeball mud

volleyball tournament.

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to homecoming, the Dub Idol and Hawk It Out singing and dance competitions,

and the annual Oozeball mud volleyball tournament. Additionally, “UNCWeekends

puts something on every weekend for students both on and off campus,” says a

public health major. Fraternities and sororities attract 11 percent of the men and

8 percent of the women, respectively. The party scene is far from raucous, students

report, and underage drinkers face stiff penalties if caught. Downtown Wilmington

is “a very scenic and beautiful city,” says a student, and offers its share of restaurants,

bars, and shops. “From the many bars to the many beaches, we have hundreds of

social spots to hang out,” boasts a senior. Road trips include jaunts to Myrtle Beach,

the Outer Banks, Washington, D.C., and the Appalachian Mountains.

UNCW fields 19 varsity teams that compete in Division I. Recent Colonial

Athletic Association conference champions include men’s and women’s swimming

and diving teams, men’s golf, men’s tennis, and baseball. “Seahawk basketball is

huge!” raves one freshman. Club and intramural sports are also popular, especially

flag football, basketball, soccer, and ice hockey. Sea kayaking and paddleboarding

trips organized by Seahawk Adventures are other favorite diversions.

Despite complaints of limited parking and the lack of football, students at the

University of North Carolina Wilmington seem to be a happy lot. “Everyone here

always seems to be in a good mood and goes out of their way to speak to and help

others,” says a senior. “Maybe it’s the Southern charm in us, but whatever it is, it

sure helps make this laid- back college an awesome place to attend.”

Overlaps

Appalachian State,

UNC Charlotte,

North Carolina

State, UNC

Greensboro, East

Carolina, UNC

at Chapel Hill,

University of South

Carolina, College of

Charleston

If You Apply To ›

UNC Wilmington: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult UNC

Wilmington’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

North Carolina State University

Box 7103, Raleigh, NC 27695

NC State may lack the high national profile of neighbors Duke and UNC at Chapel

Hill, but it is a powerhouse in North Carolina’s Research Triangle and beyond— just

ask the thousands of graduates who have moved into jobs in the area. Engineering,

business, and biology are the most popular programs. Location in the state capital a

big plus. Compare to Clemson and Virginia Tech.

Whether you’re looking for a stellar education or a top- rated athletics pro-

gram, North Carolina State University offers students the benefits of a large

school— highly regarded professors, a diverse student body, and plenty to do on

weekends— while making sure that no one feels left out. Says an electrical engi-

neering major, “There is definitely a place for everyone here, since there are so

many avenues to explore.”

The 2,137- acre campus, which dates to 1887, consists of redbrick buildings,

brick- lined walks, and cozy courtyards dotted with pine trees. There is no dominant

style but more of an architectural stream of consciousness that reveals a campus that

has grown and changed with time. Holladay Hall has been designated as a historic

site by the Raleigh City Council, while the ultramodern Hunt Library features a

game lab, visualization studio, and digital production suites. For amusement, you

can always stroll over and watch its robotic book retrieval system in action. NC

Website: www .ncsu .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 29,612

Undergraduates: 23,645

Male/Female: 50/50

Financial Aid: 66%

Pell Grant: 19%

Expense: Pub $

Student Loans: 47%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 35,420

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504 NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

State’s Centennial Campus, a 1,227- acre, public- private research campus, is home

to the $150 million Fitts- Woolard Hall, housing several engineering programs. The

$45 million Wellness and Recreation Center boasts a 48- foot- tall climbing wall and

top- of- the- line training equipment. The $160 million Plan Sciences Building is a hub

of research and innovation and features extensive collaborative space within three

core facilities— the Cellular and Molecular Imaging Facility, the Genomic Sciences

Laboratory, and the Molecular Education, Technology and Research Innovation

Center.

General education requirements cover a broad range of liberal arts disciplines in

addition to coursework that reflects interdisciplinary perspectives, develops writing

skills, examines diversity and inclusion in the U.S., and engages students in- depth

in an area that is clearly distinct from their major.

An Exploratory Studies program provides guid-

ance and counseling for incoming students to

introduce them to possible majors. “The aca-

demic climate is a mixture of healthy competi-

tiveness and teamwork/support,” says an economics major. Many classes are large,

but faculty get high grades for being accessible and helpful during office hours. A

biology major comments, “As with any university, NC State employs some out-

standing faculty and some less- than- stellar professors who are more effective in the

laboratory than in the lecture hall.”

NC State excels in the professional areas of engineering, architecture, business,

agriculture, and the sciences, which are among the largest and the most demand-

ing divisions. Not surprisingly, given its location in the heart of textile country,

the university also boasts the largest and one of the best textiles programs in the

nation. Engineering tops the list of most popular majors, followed by business, bio-

logical sciences, and agriculture. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is

the second largest school in the university, and solid nontechnical areas include

communication, English, international studies, and social work. Notable programs

are also available in genetics, forest management, biomedical engineering, sport

management, and turfgrass science.

An important feature of NC State’s approach to education is the cooperative

education program, through which students in all schools can alternate semesters

of on- site work with traditional classroom time. Twenty- two percent of students

conduct undergraduate research. The university benefits greatly from its relation-

ships with private industry through the state’s high- tech Research Triangle Park,

located nearby, as well as from cooperative ties with Duke and UNC at Chapel Hill.

NC State offers approximately 400 study abroad programs in more than 50 coun-

tries. In the University Scholars program, academic standouts live together and

participate in weekly activities such as cultural events, honors classes, and outdoor

recreation trips. Students in the University Honors Program take small seminars

and complete a capstone project, and they can join a dedicated living/learning

community.

NC State’s star continues to rise as it becomes more selective. One student says

the student body, a.k.a. Wolfpack, consists mainly of “hardworking and humble”

North Carolinians; consistent with state mandates, 88 percent are in- state students,

and 3 percent are international. Six percent of undergraduates are Black, 9 percent

are Hispanic/Latino, 10 percent are Asian American, and 5 percent are multiracial.

Conservatism among students is not uncommon, but in general, according to a

junior, “political and social activism are not widespread among the student body.”

Jocks and sports fans are visible, and the university offers 324 athletic scholarships.

Those with outstanding academic qualifications can compete for merit scholarships

averaging $5,000. The Pack Promise guarantees that every North Carolina resident

(continued)

Accepted: 47%

Enrolled: 33%

Grad in 6 Years: 86%

Returning Freshmen: 94%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (919) 515- 2434

Email Address: undergrad

-admissions @ ncsu .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Architecture

Business

Agriculture

Textiles

Biological Sciences

Communication

English

“There is definitely a place

for everyone here, since

there are so many avenues

to explore.”

The $160 million Plan

Sciences Building is

a hub of research

and innovation and

features extensive

collaborative space.

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NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY 505

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

admitted to NC State with a family income at or below 150 percent of the federal

poverty level will receive an aid package that meets 100 percent of their demon-

strated financial need.

Thirty- six percent of students live on campus, which is a requirement for first-

years, who choose between hall- style and suite- style accommodations. Thirty- one

percent of students opt to reside in the school’s 15 Living and Learning Villages,

where they can live and socialize with others who share their interests, such as

entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment. “Not very many people stay on

campus after their freshman year, and only then is it hard to get a room— in the off-

campus apartments,” reports a chemistry major. The dining halls feed all freshmen

and anyone else who cares to join the meal plan, and the food gets positive reviews.

Campus safety also receives good ratings.

The 29 fraternities and 20 sororities attract 11 percent of the men and 15 percent

of the women. The Greek scene provides much of the entertainment, but parties in

dorms and at off- campus apartments are also popular. Alcohol policies are enforced,

and if you’re thinking about grabbing a brew,

“don’t try unless you’re 21,” warns a senior. A

junior says, “There are always countless free

events going on campus: concerts, festivals, free

movies, or outdoor activities.” Packapalooza, “a

huge block party on Hillsborough Street with a

free concert at the end,” kicks off the academic year, and Wolfstock, a concert on the

last day of classes in the spring, closes it. Public transportation affords easy access to

downtown, with its shops, restaurants, theaters, and night spots. Many students also

like to head to the beach, which is about two hours away, or to the mountains

for hiking or skiing, which is about a three- and- a- half- hour trip. Volunteering is pop-

ular too.

Students love to cheer on their Division I Wolfpack teams, which do well in

baseball, football, wrestling, gymnastics, and men’s and women’s swimming and

diving; women’s cross-country won its third straight national title in 2023. But need-

less to say, basketball reigns supreme— playing in the high- powered Atlantic Coast

Conference. Some ardent NC State fans storm nearby Hillsborough Street following

game- day victories, especially those over archrival UNC at Chapel Hill. Indeed, the

annual State versus Carolina football game always packs the stadium, and the never-

ending call to “Beat Carolina!” permeates the campus year- round. Club sports and

intramurals also thrive; offerings include cricket, flag football, disc golf, and, for the

exceptionally agile, trampoline dodgeball.

NC State has moved well beyond its origins as a land grant school focusing on

agriculture and engineering. It has attracted a dedicated and friendly student body

lured by an emphasis on learning beyond the classroom and inspired by the univer-

sity’s “Think and Do” slogan. NC State works well for those who can shoot hoops

and for those who can calculate the trajectory of the same three- point shot.

Students in all schools

can alternate

semesters of on- site

work with traditional

classroom time.

“There are always countless

free events going on

campus: concerts, festivals,

free movies, or outdoor

activities.”

Overlaps

Clemson, Virginia

Tech, UNC at

Chapel Hill,

UNC Charlotte,

Appalachian State,

East Carolina,

UNC Wilmington,

University of South

Carolina

If You Apply To ›

NC State: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Applicants to studio- based

majors must submit a portfolio and additional essay. Please consult NC State’s website for the most up- to- date information

regarding standardized test requirements.

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506 NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Northeastern University

360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115

Northeastern is synonymous with preprofessional education and hands- on

experience. By interspersing co- op jobs with academic study, students can help

finance their education while getting a leg up on the job market— domestic and

global. Aided by a huge spike in applications and an ambitious building program, NU

has transformed itself from blue- collar urban into Boston chic. With students always

coming and going, campus life can be uneven.

Long known for its co- op program and hands- on learning experiences, Northeastern

University has become one of the region’s top- tier institutions. More selective than

ever, NU has added lavish new facilities and recruited big- name professors while

continuing to combine liberal arts requirements with up to 18 months of challeng-

ing work placements. “The school has encouraged and empowered me to explore

the world through research and study abroad,” cheers one mechanical engineering

major, “experiences that will stay with me forever.”

Northeastern’s 73- acre campus is an unlikely oasis located in the heart of Boston,

just minutes away from Fenway Park, shopping centers, nightclubs, cafés, Symphony

Hall, and the Museum of Fine Arts. The campus’s green spaces are interspersed with

brick walkways, sculptures, and outdoor art. Older

buildings are utilitarian gray brick, while newer

structures are modern glass and brick. During

inclement weather, students can be found navi-

gating the underground tunnel system that con-

nects many campus buildings. No longer a commuter college, NU has had the rare

luxury for an urban institution of having erstwhile parking lots available for new

construction. The state- of- the- art Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex

furthers NU’s emphasis on applied— or, to use the local jargon, “use- inspired”—

research. In recent years, NU has assembled a network of 13 satellite campuses, includ-

ing London, Vancouver, and most recently Portland, Maine, and Miami, Florida.

Northeastern’s core curriculum (known as NUpath) embraces writing- intensive

instruction, mathematical/analytical thinking, and comparative understanding of

religions and cultures. Students must take part in a first- year learning community,

integrated experiential learning, and a capstone experience in their major. Woven

into the Northeastern experience is its signature co- op program— which dates to 1909

and is the second oldest in the country— that places students in full- time positions

related to their major and personal interests. Students have the option to complete

up to two co- ops, each four to six months in length, if they seek to graduate in four

years (roughly two- thirds of students go this route), or to complete up to three co-

ops if they enroll in the university’s traditional five- year bachelor’s degree programs.

Working with a specialized co- op advisor, students may choose from more than 2,900

established co- op employer partners located in more than 146 countries, or they may

propose their own co- op. Destinations range from nonprofits in Boston to a digital

advertising agency in the Czech Republic, a children’s occupational therapy center in

Uganda, or even an Antarctic research station. Faculty members and dedicated co- op

advisors prepare students for their co- ops with a special course beforehand, check in

with them while they are out in the field, and organize academic reflection on the

experience afterward. “Professors want to make sure that you are as attractive as pos-

sible to potential employers,” says a political science major.

NU’s undergraduate programs are divided among seven colleges and schools:

Website: www .northeastern

.edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 32,403

Undergraduates: 20,850

Male/Female: 45/55

Financial Aid: 70%

Pell Grant: 13%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 46%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 91,000

Accepted: 7%

Enrolled: 41%

Grad in 6 Years: 91%

Returning Freshmen: 97%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (617) 373- 2200

Email Address: admissions @

northeastern .edu

Strong Programs:

Architecture

Journalism

Business and Marketing

Engineering

Social Sciences

Health Professions

International Business

“The school has empowered

me to explore the world

through research and

study abroad.”

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NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY 507

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

the College of Arts, Media, and Design; the D’Amore- McKim School of Business;

the Khoury College of Computer Sciences; the College of Engineering; the Bouvé

College of Health Sciences; the College of Science; and the College of Social Sciences

and Humanities. The Explore Program offers experiential learning opportunities and

academic advising to help undeclared students learn about potential majors and

careers. Students with diverse interests may select from a slew of combined majors

that cross disciplines, such as information science and cognitive psychology, political

science and communication studies, and international affairs and cultural anthro-

pology. Architecture and journalism are strengths, and the most popular majors fall

under the categories of business and marketing, engineering, social sciences, and

health professions. The well- regarded international business program features an

“expat year,” in which students spend one semester studying at an overseas uni-

versity and six months working at an international co- op. Health sciences students

may pursue a six- year doctor of pharmacy degree, and several “PlusOne” programs

allow students to earn a master’s degree by completing an additional year of study.

Under the Dialogue of Civilizations program, faculty members take more than

1,200 students abroad each summer. High- achieving first- year students may be invited

to join the honors program to pursue more challenging coursework and live together

in dedicated housing. In 2022, Northeastern

absorbed struggling Mills College, a women’s col-

lege in Oakland, California, to form a unique

“bicoastal” institution of higher education. Under

the terms of the merger, Northeastern is funding

the creation of a Mills Institute that will continue to operate on the Oakland campus

and perpetuate Mills’s distinctive commitment to “gender and racial justice and the

advancement of women, gender nonbinary individuals, and communities of color.”

The first new joint program, titled Leading Social Change and open to students at both

schools, was launched on the Mills campus in January 2022.

Northeastern students tend to be academically and professionally driven. “Very

quickly, we are sent out into the real world to really understand what we are doing

and where we want to go,” muses a political science and international affairs major.

“This causes us to mature quite quickly.” Northeastern was founded in 1898 as a

YMCA educational program to serve local students from diverse socioeconomic

backgrounds. These days, only 27 percent of undergraduates are from Massachusetts,

and just 13 percent qualify for Pell Grants. Consistent with Northeastern’s efforts to

promote a global culture, 14 percent come from overseas. Asian Americans comprise

19 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 11 percent, Black students 5 per-

cent, and multiracial students 6 percent. Merit scholarships averaging $14,200 are

awarded annually, as are nearly 300 athletic scholarships.

Forty- seven percent of NU undergraduates live in university- owned housing. Most

first- years and sophomores live on campus, unless a co- op or study abroad program

takes them away from Boston. After that, university housing is limited and offered on a

space- available basis, so most upperclassmen rent

privately owned apartments near campus. The

dining halls offer “a lot of options and good food,”

according to students, who also speak highly of NU

Public Safety: “I feel extremely safe on campus even though it is in the middle of the

city,” says one senior. Another adds, “All Northeastern students go through sexual

assault and diversity training that gives us the tools to deal with these issues while on

campus, as well as during study abroad and even during our co- op experiences.”

When it comes to Northeastern’s social scene, “Most of the social life happens

off campus,” one student says. Hundreds of clubs and activities abound, but the

continuous flow of students on and off the campus for co- ops tends to be disruptive.

The fleet- footed

men’s and women’s

track and cross-

country teams

regularly leave their

opponents blinking

in the dust.

“Professors want to make

sure that you are as

attractive as possible to

potential employers.”

Students with diverse

interests may select

from a slew of

combined majors that

cross disciplines.

“You are pushed to meet

new people and develop

networking skills.”

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508 NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

“I may see a friend one quarter in class and then not again for six months. It’s hard

to stay connected,” a student explains. The upside of this, says an engineering stu-

dent, is that “you are pushed to meet new people and develop networking skills.”

Fraternities and sororities attract 10 percent of NU men and 15 percent of women,

respectively. Regular traditions include Springfest, an annual concert that draws the

likes of Chance the Rapper and MisterWives, and the annual Underwear Run during

Parent Weekend in the fall, when students run through the city at night in their

underwear or wacky costumes. Boston is, of course, the “ultimate college town” and

offers a seemingly endless array of concerts, museums, clubs, and eateries. In the

winter, students head to the ski slopes of Vermont, and in balmier weather, they’re

off to the beaches of Cape Cod and the North Shore.

Northeastern fields 19 Division I varsity teams (the Huskies) as part of the Colonial

Athletic Association and the Hockey East Association. The biggest sports series of the

year is the Beanpot Hockey Tournament (“Hockey is king here at Northeastern”),

which pits Northeastern against rival teams from

Boston College, Boston University, and Harvard.

“It is all about bragging rights and pride, and the

fans from the schools make it fun,” reports a student. One T-shirt reads, “No—

we don’t want to B.U.,” epitomizing the competitive nature of the sports teams in the

Boston area. NU’s men’s and women’s ice hockey and men’s basketball teams are

recent conference champions, and the fleet- footed men’s and women’s track and

cross- country teams regularly leave their opponents blinking in the dust. The recre-

ation program offers more than 30 intramural options, and with 50- plus club teams,

Northeastern is well represented in nonvarsity competition with other schools.

Northeastern is a school on the rise. It has moved well beyond its origins as an

open admissions commuter school and— through aggressive fund- raising, an ambi-

tious building program, and unabashed marketing— adapted its century of experience

with co- op education to the emerging global economy. Northeastern students tend to

be serious about their studies but learn to wear many hats. “We are employees at co-

op, students in class, friends and roommates in our free time,” explains one denizen.

“We balance work and play while still meeting deadlines.” Northeastern students

graduate with a broad reservoir of experiences that they know will serve them well

once they start scouring those job listings— both in the U.S. and around the world.

Northeastern’s 73-

acre campus is an

unlikely oasis located

in the heart of Boston.

“Hockey is king here at

Northeastern.”

Overlaps

University of

Southern California,

NYU, Boston

College, Boston

University, George

Washington, UC

Berkeley, Columbia,

Cornell University

If You Apply To ›

Northeastern: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Studio art applicants

must submit portfolio. Please consult Northeastern’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized

test requirements.

Northwestern University

1801 Hinman Avenue, P.O. Box 3060, Evanston, IL 60208

The Big Ten is not the Ivy League, and Northwestern has more school spirit than its

high- powered Eastern counterparts. Much more preprofessional than its nearby rival

University of Chicago or any of the Ivies except Penn, NU is comparable to Duke and

Stanford with an academic culture that encourages interdisciplinary work. World-

renowned in journalism. Athletic program tarnished by scandal involving hazing and

sexual abuse.

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NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY 509

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

On Sunday nights before finals begin at Northwestern University, students are

encouraged to let off steam with a campuswide “primal scream.” The ear- shattering

event illustrates two big themes at NU: students work really hard, but they also

know how to let loose and enjoy themselves. This elite, top- tier university, the only

private school in the Big Ten, boasts some of the most well- respected preprofes-

sional programs in the country. Plus, Northwestern is ideally located just outside of

Chicago. “I love being at a place where I can learn and have a great social life,” says

one student.

Northwestern, founded in 1851 by a group of Methodist ministers and business-

men to serve the former Northwest Territory (hence the name!), is situated on 231

acres about a dozen miles north of the Chicago Loop. An eclectic mix of stone build-

ings with abundant ivy, the leafy campus is set off

from the town of Evanston and runs for a mile

along the shore of Lake Michigan. Students

migrate between the North Campus (techy) and

the South Campus (artsy). The newer buildings are

located adjacent to a 14- acre lagoon, part of an 85- acre lakefill addition built in the

’60s. This area provides students with a prime location for picnicking, fishing, running,

cycling, or just daydreaming. Recent campus additions include the 96,000- square- foot

Ryan Fieldhouse, part of a larger $270 million sports complex.

Half of Northwestern’s undergraduates are enrolled in arts and sciences, while

the other half are spread out among five professional schools, all with national rep-

utations. Indeed, students tend to identify more strongly with their school than

with Northwestern as a whole. The Medill School of Journalism, the only such pro-

gram at a top private university, sends student reporters out with iPads and video

cameras as well as spiral notebooks. The curriculum integrates multimedia tech-

niques with the study of “audience understanding” and features internships at

dozens of top newspapers, magazines, and television stations across the nation.

There’s also a four- year accelerated B.S.J./M.S.J. program. A dazzling electronic studio

centralizes Medill’s state- of- the- art broadcast newsroom and the communication

school’s radio/TV/film department. The School of Communication also houses a

notable program in theater. The McCormick School of Engineering and Applied

Science is strong in all aspects of engineering and pairs students with clients with

practical problems. Five- year co- op options are

available. The School of Music wants students

who can combine conservatory- level musician-

ship with high- level academics; it offers a five-

year program from which students emerge with two B.A. degrees. The School of

Education and Social Policy is the only school of its kind in the country and com-

petes with Vanderbilt for education majors. Students and faculty members alike are

encouraged to range across traditional disciplinary barriers— a policy that has led to

the creation of some entirely new fields such as materials science— and students are

free to switch schools once they are enrolled.

Consistent with this approach, students say the university’s best programs

include the Integrated Science Program and Mathematical Methods in the Social

Sciences, a selective program that gives students the technical skills to move into

various areas of the social sciences. Strong arts and sciences departments include

chemistry and history, although the humanities as a group are less strong. The social

sciences (especially economics, psychology, and political science), journalism, neu-

roscience, engineering, and visual and performing arts enroll the most majors. Each

of the undergraduate schools determines its own general education requirements,

but broad outlines are similar. Each school requires a graduate to have coursework

in “the major domains of knowledge”— science, mathematics and technology,

Website: www .northwestern

.edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 22,732

Undergraduates: 8,527

Male/Female: 46/54

Financial Aid: 45%

Pell Grant: 22%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 29%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 51,261

Accepted: 7%

Enrolled: 55%

Grad in 6 Years: 97%

Returning Freshmen: 98%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (847) 491- 7271

Email Address: ug -admission

@ northwestern .edu

Strong Programs:

Journalism

Radio/Television/Film

Theater

Engineering

Music

Education

Chemistry

History

“The academics are

rigorous and will take

some adjustment from

high school.”

“The nicer dorms on

campus are competitive to

get into.”

Incoming students

take part in Wildcat

Welcome, a weeklong

orientation designed

to ease the transition

into college life.

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510 NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

individual and social behavior, historical studies, values, the humanities, and the

fine arts. Incoming students take part in Wildcat Welcome, a weeklong orientation

designed to ease the transition into college life.

Unlike most schools on a 10- week quarter system, Northwesterners take four (not

three) courses each quarter, except in engineering, where five are permitted. “Students

tend to be supportive and collaborative,” says a senior, but “the academics are rigor-

ous and will take some adjustment from high school.” Virtually all undergraduate

courses are taught by regular faculty members. Introductory courses are larger than

most, but 78 percent of all undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students. “The

quality of teaching at Northwestern depends on the department and the professor,”

confides a senior, “but overall I would say it’s very high quality.” The Office of

Undergraduate Research helps students apply for research assistantships and faculty-

mentored independent projects, often with the support of grants. About a third of

students take a break from campus through their choice of 150 study abroad pro-

grams in 50 countries.

Upon graduating, NU students tend to pursue business fields like consulting and

finance, with technology, education, and communication distant followers. “Many

students are overachievers,” comments a social policy major. “Many are goal- and

career- oriented.” Twenty- six percent of under-

graduates hail from Illinois, and 11 percent come

from overseas. Students of color represent a siz-

able contingent of the student body, with Asian

Americans accounting for 21 percent, Black students 7 percent, Hispanics/Latinos

14 percent, and multiracial students 7 percent. Merit scholarships average $9,000,

and 365 athletic scholarships are available in 19 sports. NU guarantees to meet the

full demonstrated need of every admit and has eliminated need- based loans from its

financial aid packages.

Fifty- five percent of undergraduates reside in university housing, mostly in

double rooms, although there are also singles, triples, and suites. “Housing varies

significantly in quality at Northwestern,” reports a journalism and political science

major, and a classmate adds, “The nicer dorms on campus are competitive to get

into.” Several residential colleges, in areas like engineering, commerce and indus-

try, and communication, bring students and faculty members together during fac-

ulty “firesides” or simply over meals. Fraternities and sororities also have their own

houses. Most upperclassmen move off campus, but a senior cautions, “Housing in

Evanston is expensive.” Students can choose to eat at any one of six residential

dining halls or a variety of restaurants and cafés on campus. “There is always at least

one option for halal, kosher, vegan, vegetarian, gluten- free, or allergen- free needs,”

says a sophomore. Students generally feel safe on campus, but crime has been a con-

cern in Evanston, especially after dark.

Much of the social life at NU is centered on the Greek system, with 12 percent

of the men and 13 percent of the women joining up. Some students say finding a

social niche can be tough, especially for those who aren’t involved in Greek life,

athletics, journalism, or theater. The school’s alcohol policy is stiff but not always

effective, “like the vast majority of campuses nationwide,” says a student. The stu-

dent government and Activities and Organizations Board sponsor an array of cam-

puswide events, including theater productions, concerts, and movies. The 30- hour

Dance Marathon and Dillo (Armadillo) Day, an end- of- the- year music festival with

big- name artists, food trucks, a beer garden, and art installations, are popular annual

events. Another tradition is upheld when representatives of student organizations

slip out in the dead of night to paint their colors and slogans on a centrally located

rock. In all, there are more than 500 student organizations, ranging from an African

drum and dance ensemble to Adshop, an advertising agency that lets students hone

Half of

Northwestern’s

undergraduates

are enrolled in arts

and sciences.

“[Suburban Evanston is]

the restaurant haven of

Chicago’s North Shore.”

Northwestern

consistently posts the

highest graduation

rates among major

football programs.

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UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME 511

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

their marketing skills by promoting local businesses. Suburban Evanston is “the

restaurant haven of Chicago’s North Shore,” says a junior. A short stroll off campus

brings you to the town’s myriad restaurant options, trendy bars, and coffee shops

with space to plug in a laptop and study, but most businesses close by 10 p.m. For

culture or a night out, of course, Chicago is right across the border.

Football and tailgate parties are a traditional way of bringing alumni back and

rousing the students to support the smallest and only private school in the Division

I Big Ten. The Wildcats football team’s trip to the 1996 Rose Bowl remains the stuff

of legend. And Northwestern consistently posts the highest graduation rates among

major football programs. In the last few years, women’s lacrosse and softball have

brought home Big Ten championship titles. As far as facilities, NU is on par with

many schools its size and larger, with the beautiful Norris Aquatics Center/Henry

Crown Sports Pavilion and the Nicolet Football and Conference Center used for con-

ditioning of varsity athletes. The student- sponsored intramural program provides

vigorous competition among teams from dorms and rival Greek groups, and over 30

club sports are an option too. Northwestern also boasts one of the winningest debate

teams in the country.

Northwestern occupies a unique niche in U.S. higher education. It has the aca-

demics of the Ivies, the spirited atmosphere of the Big Ten publics, and, along with

Duke, Stanford, and perhaps Vanderbilt, combines success in Division I sports with

quality instruction. Northwestern students bask in their school’s balance of chal-

lenging academics, preprofessional bent, and myriad opportunities to get off campus

to learn and let loose.

Overlaps

Columbia, UPenn,

Stanford, Duke,

Brown, Yale,

WashU in St. Louis,

University of

Michigan

If You Apply To ›

Northwestern: Early decision, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult

Northwestern’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

University of Notre Dame

220 Main Building, Notre Dame, IN 46556

The Holy Grail of higher education for many Roman Catholics. ND’s heartland location

and 80- percent- Catholic enrollment make it a bastion of solid education and equally

solid values, religious and otherwise. Offers business, science, architecture, and

engineering in addition to the liberal arts. ND’s personality is much closer to Boston

College or Holy Cross than Georgetown. Only school ever ranked #1 in both football

and graduation rates.

Founded in 1842 by the French priest Edward Sorin from the Congregation of Holy

Cross, the University of Notre Dame has come a long way from its fledgling days in

a rustic log cabin. While described as “a Catholic academic community of higher

learning,” its students need not be affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church.

Notre Dame takes pride in fostering a culture that values open discussion of reli-

gious, spiritual, and social issues, and it appeals to non- Catholics who are commit-

ted to social justice or seek a broadly spiritual dimension to their education. A soft

spot for football doesn’t hurt either.

With 1,250 acres of manicured quads, twin lakes, and woods, the university offers

a peaceful setting for studying. The lofty Golden Dome that rises above the ivy- covered

Website: www .nd .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 12,717

Undergraduates: 8,899

Male/Female: 52/48

Financial Aid: 48%

Pell Grant: 12%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

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512 UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Gothic and modern buildings and the old brick stadium, where Knute Rockne made

the Fighting Irish almost synonymous with college football, are national icons. The

university recently completed a $1.1 billion construction spree that added 20 new

buildings in less than a decade, including several new academic buildings and resi-

dence halls. The nine- story Duncan Student Center overlooks the football stadium and

boasts a career services center, dining facilities, a fitness center with a massive rock-

climbing wall, and premium stadium seating for football VIPs. Notre Dame’s $19 bil-

lion endowment is the largest of any of the country’s Catholic colleges and universities.

Liberal education is more than just a catchphrase at Notre Dame. No matter what

their major, students must take the First Year of Studies, one of the most extensive

academic and counseling programs of any university in the nation. The core of the

program is a one- semester writing- intensive uni-

versity seminar limited to 20 students per section.

The remainder of each freshman’s schedule is

reserved for the first of a comprehensive list of

general education requirements covering writing and mathematics, natural science,

theology, philosophy, history, social science, and fine arts. Academic and peer advi-

sors are assigned to each student, as are tutors if necessary. Administrators are quick to

point out that, due in part to the success of the first- year support program, a whop-

ping 97 percent of freshmen make it through the year and return for sophomore year.

In the College of Arts and Letters, highly regarded departments include English,

theology, and philosophy. Physics and chemistry are tops in the College of Science,

bolstered by the first- rate equipment in the Nieuwland and Jordan Science Halls.

Within the engineering school, chemical engineering rules, while the Mendoza

College of Business’s accountancy program is ranked among the nation’s best.

Another standout is the School of Architecture’s five- year undergraduate degree

program, in which students spend their entire junior year in Rome. The most pop-

ular majors overall are finance, economics, political science, and neuroscience and

behavior. Students describe the academic climate as fairly competitive but not

cutthroat by any measure. “The workload is very demanding,” says a senior. “It

requires the student to have very good time- management skills.” Sixty percent of

classes enroll fewer than 20 students, and students praise faculty members for being

dynamic, personable, knowledgeable, and accessible. “The professors here care a

great deal about their students, and it shows,” says a biology major.

Notre Dame offers a variety of special academic programs and options. One of

the most popular is the Program of Liberal Studies, in which students study art, phi-

losophy, literature, and the history of Western thought within their Great Books

seminars. The Summer Comprehensive Grant program awards up to $5,000 to stu-

dents wishing to spend their summer focusing on independent research. Roughly

70 percent of undergrads take part in Notre Dame’s extensive international study

program, which includes opportunities at the university’s Global Gateways in

London, Dublin, Rome, Beijing, and Jerusalem.

With a predominantly lay board of trustees and faculty, Notre Dame remains

committed to “the preservation of a distinctly Catholic community,” and it has a

more self- consciously Catholic identity than any other major research university,

including Boston College and Georgetown. The

president and several other top administrators are

priests of the Congregation of Holy Cross, and

each dorm has its own chapel with daily masses, though attendance is not required.

The main social issues discussed on campus include abortion; gender, racial, and

LGBTQ issues; and faith. Black students make up 4 percent of the undergraduate stu-

dent body, Hispanics/Latinos 13 percent, Asian Americans 6 percent, and multiracial

students 6 percent. Despite its relative cultural homogeneity, Notre Dame recruits

from all over the country; 90 percent of the students are from states outside of Indiana,

(continued)

Student Loans: 36%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 26,509

Accepted: 13%

Enrolled: 60%

Grad in 6 Years: 96%

Returning Freshmen: 97%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (574) 631- 7505

Email Address: admissions @

nd .edu

Strong Programs:

English

Theology

Physics

Chemical Engineering

Accountancy

Architecture

Finance

Economics

“The workload . . . requires

the student to have very good

time- management skills.”

The School of

Architecture’s five-

year undergraduate

degree program

allows students to

spend their entire

junior year in Rome.

“The campus is self-

contained and well- lit.”

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UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME 513

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and 3 percent hail from other countries. Competitive merit awards average $14,100,

and the university meets 100 percent of accepted students’ demonstrated financial

need. The Division I powerhouse deals out hundreds of athletic scholarships as well.

Seventy- nine percent of ND students live on campus, which is required for their

first three years. For their freshman year, students are assigned to a residence hall,

mixed among the other classes, and they are encouraged to stay in the same one

until graduation. Since ND has never had Greek organizations, the single- sex dorms

become surrogate fraternities and sororities that breed a similar spirit of community

and family. “The dorm culture is a unique part of ND’s personality,” comments a

sophomore. Notre Dame has been co- ed since 1972, and parietal rules (midnight on

weekdays, 2 a.m. on weekends) are still strictly enforced— and the subject of many

student complaints. Students eat in the North or South dining halls or take their

pick from 26 other restaurants, cafés, and to- go locations. As for safety, “The campus

is self- contained and well- lit,” reports a student.

ND’s social life isn’t as rambunctious as it once was, thanks to policies that forbid

alcohol at campus social events. The rules relating to alcohol in the dorms are a bit

more relaxed. For those who choose not to indulge, there are several groups dedicated

to good times without alcohol. Most activities

take place on campus and include parties, con-

certs, and movies. A popular event is the An Tóstal

(Gaelic for “the pageant”) festival, which comes the week before spring finals and

guarantees to temporarily relieve academic anxiety with silly games, free food, give-

aways, music, and other activities. The annual Notre Dame Forum brings internation-

ally known speakers to campus to address timely topics like sustainability and the

Catholic Church’s sex abuse crisis. Students are involved in the community through

volunteer work— more than 10 percent of grads enter public service positions. The

best outlet for culture is nearby Chicago, about 90 minutes away. South Bend, with a

metro area population of 325,000, offers plenty of entertainment options as well.

Notre Dame competes in the Division I Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) for all

sports except football and ice hockey. There’s nothing like Notre Dame football,

with its proud gridiron heritage and legends from Knute Rockne and the Gipper

right on down to more recent greats such as Joe Montana. ND’s name may be French,

but the spirit of the Fighting Irish reigns supreme and has regained its former glory

under head coach Brian Kelly. “Notre Dame football is massive,” cheers a sopho-

more. It wasn’t intentional— at least that’s what they say— but the giant mosaic of

Jesus Christ on the library lifts his hands toward the heavens as if to signal yet

another Irish touchdown. Tailgate parties are celebrated events, occurring before

and after the game. Aside from football, Notre Dame offers a solid all- around athletic

program. Men’s soccer and men’s cross- country have brought home recent ACC

championships, and the co- ed fencing program won its third consecutive national

title in 2023. Die- hard jocks who weren’t recruited for varsity teams will find plenty

of company in ND’s very competitive club and intramural sports. The Bookstore

Basketball Tournament, the largest 5- on- 5, outdoor hoops tournament in the world

with more than 700 teams competing, lasts for a month.

From administrators to students, everyone here is considered part of the “Notre

Dame family.” Traditions are held in high esteem. For those looking for high- quality

academics, a friendly, caring environment with a Catholic bent, and an excellent

athletic scene, ND could be an answer to their prayers.

Notre Dame’s

$19 billion endowment

is the largest of any

of the country’s

Catholic colleges

and universities.

“Notre Dame football is

massive.”

The annual Notre

Dame Forum brings

internationally known

speakers to campus to

address timely topics.

Overlaps

Boston College,

Holy Cross, Duke,

University of

Pennsylvania,

Northwestern,

Vanderbilt,

Princeton, Villanova

If You Apply To ›

ND: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Please consult Notre Dame’s website for the most

up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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514 OBERLIN COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Oberlin College

38 E. College Street, Oberlin, OH 44074

The college that invented nonconformity. From the Underground Railroad and

coeducation to global learning and the modern peace movement, Obies have long

been in the forefront. As at Grinnell and Reed, Oberlin’s curriculum is less radical than

its students. Oberlin is especially strong in the sciences, and its music conservatory

is among the nation’s best. The annual Drag Ball is quintessential Oberlin.

New and contrasting ideas are a way of life at Oberlin College, a liberal arts school

where nonconformity is a cherished tradition and student activism continues to

make occasional headlines. Tucked away in a small Ohio town and dating to 1833,

Oberlin was a stop on the Underground Railroad, and it was the first American col-

lege to adopt a policy to admit students of color and the first to grant undergraduate

degrees to women in a coeducational program. That pioneering spirit has not faded.

With diverse academic challenges ranging from cinema studies to neuroscience,

Obies thrive on higher thinking and exploring their myriad talents. As one junior

puts it, “Students here don’t sit around during their free time; there’s always another

activity to be doing, a book to read, a lecture to go to.”

Oberlin’s attractive 440- acre campus features a mix of Italian Renaissance build-

ings (four designed by Cass Gilbert), late 19th- and early 20th- century organic stone

structures, and some less interesting 1950s barracks- type dorms. The buildings rise

over flatlands typical of the Midwest, which do

little to stop brutal winter winds. The Allen

Memorial Art Museum, sometimes mentioned in

the same breath as those at Harvard and Yale, is

one of the loveliest buildings on campus, with a brick- paved, flower- laden courtyard

and a fountain. The Oberlin College Science Center offers state- of- the- art classrooms,

a science library, and laboratory space. Work is underway on the $140 million

Sustainability Infrastructure Project, which will convert the entire campus to geo-

thermal heating and cooling with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2025.

There are no academic requisites for freshmen at Oberlin, but general education

requirements include proficiency in writing and math and coursework in arts and

humanities, natural sciences and math, social and behavioral sciences, and cultural

diversity. Students must also participate in three January terms, during which they

pursue monthlong projects, traditional or unique, on or off campus. About 40 differ-

ent First- Year Seminar classes are available every semester, with enrollment limited

to 14 students each, and although optional, almost all freshmen sign up because “it’s

a great way to make friends,” says a student. “It also introduces you to the Oberlin

academic experience.”

Oberlin’s Conservatory of Music occupies a well- deserved spot among the

nation’s most prominent performance schools; the voice, violin, and technology in

music and related arts programs are especially praised. It is the oldest continuously

operating music conservatory in the country, and Oberlin is one of only a hand-

ful of liberal arts colleges with a conservatory (see also Bard and Lawrence). The

conservatory boasts 150 practice rooms, a substantial music library, and Steinway

pianos— one of the world’s largest collections. It enrolls about a fifth of Oberlin

undergrads, who must audition to gain acceptance. Each year, about 40 students

enter the Double Degree Program, which allows them to earn both a B.M. and a B.A.

in five (or fewer) years; these students must be admitted to both the college and the

music conservatory.

Website: www .oberlin .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 2,918

Undergraduates: 2,905

Male/Female: 42/58

Financial Aid: 80%

Pell Grant: 8%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 46%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 10,597

Accepted: 34%

Enrolled: 26%

Grad in 6 Years: 82%

Returning Freshmen: 91%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (440) 775- 8411

Email Address: college

.admissions @ oberlin .edu

Strong Programs:

Music

Biology

Chemistry

Environmental Studies

Neuroscience

Creative Writing

Dance

Economics

“There’s always another

activity to be doing, a book

to read, a lecture to go to.”

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OBERLIN COLLEGE 515

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Oberlin has been a leader among liberal arts colleges seeking to promote their

science offerings; biology and chemistry are two of the college’s strongest depart-

ments, and environmental studies and neuroscience are well regarded. The creative

writing and dance departments are notable, and

students also flock to economics, politics, psy-

chology, and computer science. Interdisciplinary

and self- created majors, such as Africana, East

Asian, Russian, Jewish, and gender studies, are

popular— not surprisingly at such a liberal school. For those with more technical

inclinations, 3– 2 engineering degrees are offered in partnership with Case Western

Reserve, WashU in St. Louis, Columbia, and Caltech. One of Oberlin’s more unusual

offerings is ExCo, an experimental college that offers students and interested towns-

folk the chance to teach and learn together. Most classes are taught by students, and

topics can range from community organizing to knitting to salsa dancing, and much

more.

Oberlin’s students are as serious about their schoolwork as they are about poli-

tics, justice, and other social causes, and heavy workloads are the norm. “Oberlin is

academically rigorous but not competitive between students,” says a junior. Seventy-

seven percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, and a math and economics

double major says, “I always love how much passion the professors bring because it

makes classes more engaging.” Most departments offer group and individual inde-

pendent study opportunities and invite selected students to pursue demanding

honors programs, especially during their senior year. Sixty- six percent of students

conduct undergraduate research, and a whopping 80 percent of students study,

intern, or do service work abroad in Oberlin- directed programs in Italy, Spain, and

the UK, or more than 90 other affiliated programs.

Oberlin students are— in a word— passionate. “We’re all pretty quirky, all pretty

dorky. Oberlin students love learning and love talking about the things they’re

passionate about,” says a politics and history major. Eighty- two percent of under-

graduates are from states outside of Ohio, pri-

marily from the Mid- Atlantic states, and

11 percent come from abroad. But achieving

diversity in rural Ohio has been a challenge:

Black students account for 6 percent of the stu-

dent body, Asian Americans 5 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 8 percent, and multiracial

students 8 percent. Merit scholarships averaging $23,000 are available to qualified

students, and Oberlin promises to meet students’ full demonstrated financial

need— though a mere 8 percent of incoming freshmen are eligible for Pell Grants.

For all its talk of nonconformity, Oberlin is also a model of political correctness.

“Though the student body is homogeneously liberal,” says a junior, “there are more

protests, awareness and advocacy groups, and campaigns here than I can keep track

of.” A popular annual event is the Drag Ball, in which half the student body comes

in full drag. “It’s very Oberlin, because it’s all about challenging social norms,” says

a student.

Ninety- one percent of Oberlin students live in campus housing, including sev-

eral program houses focusing on various foreign languages and cultural backgrounds.

For five dollars, students can rent up to two original works from the college’s art

museum to decorate their rooms. A small number of upperclassmen are allowed to

live off campus every year, and those who wish to do so must try their luck in a

random lottery. Students may eat in any of five dining halls and cafés. Appetizing

alternatives to institutional fare can be found at the six co- ops that comprise the

Oberlin Student Cooperative Association, a nearly $3- million- a- year corporation

run entirely by students. Regarding safety, students say they feel safe on campus but

“[Taking First Year Seminar

classes] introduces you

to the Oberlin academic

experience.”

The Oberlin College

Science Center

offers state- of- the-

art classrooms, a

science library, and

laboratory space.

“I always love how much

passion the professors

bring because it makes

classes more engaging.”

Oberlin’s Conservatory

of Music occupies a

well- deserved spot

among the nation’s

most prominent

performance schools.

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516 OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

report that the administration’s handling of sexual assault cases needs improvement

to better support survivors.

Social life, like so much of the Oberlin experience, is lively and eclectic.

“Social life is based a lot around live music— we go to a lot of concerts, and par-

ties usually book at least one campus band,” says a junior. The midnight Organ

Pump concerts in Finney Chapel each semester combine serious classical music

with musical oddities, such as the school police blotter performed as Anglican

chant. Several house parties, plays, movies, and conservatory performances are

planned each week. And since there’s no Greek system, nothing is exclusive. “The

open- mindedness of the student body extends to social life, so while people do

drink and do drugs, there is little pressure to partake if that’s not your thing,”

comments a senior.

The small town of Oberlin offers some good restaurants and local shops,

although they tend to close early. “There’s only really two square blocks of down-

town,” says one student, “but within it is basically everything that you need.” When

the urge to wander strikes, Cleveland is only 30

miles away. Although relations between ultrapro-

gressive Oberlin and the town are sometimes

uneasy, Obies are always enthusiastic about giving back to the community through

volunteer activities at local schools, hospitals, and nursing homes.

The Division III Yeomen and Yeowomen (medieval terms for people who own

and cultivate land that hearken back to the college’s founding motto of “Learning

and Labor”) appear to be building a loyal fan base: the women’s cross- country team

is a perennial powerhouse, and men’s cross- country and women’s track and field

have claimed North Coast Athletic Conference championships in recent years. As

for intramural and club sports, 30 percent of students compete, and ultimate Frisbee

and Quadball (formerly known as Quidditch) are consistent favorites.

Oberlin may be small, but its emphasis on global learning, undergraduate

research, and a vibrant liberal arts education helps it burst those statistical seams.

Students are more likely to discuss local poverty than the quality of cereal choices in

the dining halls, and they can be found playing a Steinway or plugging away at

astronomy. One Obie sums it up this way: “Oberlin is the epitome of a liberal arts

school, and that is reflected in all of the ways students customize their learning

experiences, from the topics they choose for papers and projects to how they dem-

onstrate that they care about current events.”

“Social life is based a lot

around live music.”

For five dollars,

students can rent up

to two original works

from the college’s art

museum to decorate

their rooms.

Overlaps

Kenyon, Vassar,

Carleton,

Macalester,

Northwestern,

Reed, Lawrence,

Wesleyan

If You Apply To ›

Oberlin: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Applicants to Conservatory of Music must

audition. Please consult Oberlin’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Occidental College

1600 Campus Road, Los Angeles, CA 90041

Oxy is a streetwise cousin to the more upscale and suburban Claremont Colleges.

Plentiful internships and study abroad give Oxy students real- world perspectives.

Opportunities for undergraduate research are abundant. Oxy’s innovative diplomacy

and world affairs program features internships with UN agencies. Strong focus on

diversity and social justice.

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OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE 517

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Founded in 1887, Occidental College is one of a handful of small colleges located

in a big city, in this case La La Land. But unlike the sprawling and impersonal City

of Angels, Oxy emphasizes a strong sense of community and a decidedly diverse

student population. Notable attendees include former president Barack Obama.

“Students dream big at Oxy,” says a senior. “Whether a student wants a career in

Hollywood or on Wall Street, everyone knows that it starts in the classroom.”

Set against the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains, Oxy’s self- contained

Mediterranean- style campus is a secluded enclave of flowers and trees between

Pasadena and Glendale, minutes from downtown Los Angeles. The McKinnon

Center for Global Affairs features a two- story, LED- lit wall of sculpted glass with

embedded interactive screens that display a shifting array of student and faculty

research and coursework. Newer campus additions include a state- of- the- art music

production center and an $18 million aquatic center.

Inside this urban oasis resides a thriving community of high achievers who

don’t for a moment believe that the liberal arts are dead or even wounded. Required

first- year cultural studies seminars include topics

in human history and culture, with an emphasis

on writing skills, and are limited to 16 students

each. In addition, all Oxy students must show

proficiency in a foreign language and complete

coursework in world cultures, fine arts, the prein-

dustrial era, science, and math. In their final year, all students complete a senior

comprehensive, or “comp,” such as a project, paper, or exam that shows mastery in

their field.

Many of Occidental’s academic departments are excellent; economics, diplo-

macy and world affairs, psychology, biology, urban and environmental policy, pol-

itics, and chemistry are among the strongest and most popular majors. The media

arts and culture major, which offers concentrations in critical media and media

production, is solid; students learn both theory and production skills and enjoy

access to internships in L.A.’s film and entertainment industries. There are also 3– 2

engineering programs with Caltech and Columbia University and a 4– 2 biotechnol-

ogy program with Keck Graduate Institute (of the Claremont Colleges). Academics

at Oxy are challenging, but the atmosphere is not competitive. Faculty members are

readily available in and out of the classroom, and students say the teaching, in gen-

eral, is excellent. Seventy percent of classes have fewer than 20 students, and as aca-

demic advisors are responsible for about four students per class (16 total), personal

relationships develop quickly. “Professors’ office doors are always open for students

if they need help in class or in life,” confirms a senior.

Oxy encourages diverse learning experiences through independent study,

internships, and study abroad. The college boasts an unusual UN program that

allows students to intern with UN- related organizations while also taking classes and

living in Manhattan for a semester. The Campaign Semester, offered every two years,

gives students a chance to work full- time on political campaigns and then return to

campus for a seminar where they reflect on their experiences. About two- thirds of

students study abroad or pursue international research or internships in programs

offered in more than 50 countries. The Summer Research Program supports more

than 100 student research projects in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities

every summer, and many students publish and present their work.

“Students at Oxy are generally creative, smart self- starters and politically and

socially engaged/opinionated,” says a sociology major. Perhaps not surprisingly,

students tend to be liberal, and the raging social concerns are “racial and social

inequalities, environmentalism, and gender issues,” according to one student.

Thirty- seven percent of the students are from California, and 5 percent hail from

Website: www .oxy .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,913

Undergraduates: 1,913

Male/Female: 41/59

Financial Aid: 78%

Pell Grant: 16%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 49%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 6,305

Accepted: 39%

Enrolled: 21%

Grad in 6 Years: 83%

Returning Freshmen: 89%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 825- 5262

Email Address: admission @

oxy .edu

Strong Programs:

Economics

Diplomacy and World Affairs

Psychology

Biology

Urban and Environmental

Policy

Politics

Chemistry

Media Arts and Culture

“Whether a student wants

a career in Hollywood or

on Wall Street, everyone

[here] knows that it starts

in the classroom.”

Big events include

Apollo Night (a talent

contest) and the Fall

Fest and Spring Fest

concerts, featuring

big- name performers.

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518 OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

foreign nations. Black students make up 4 percent of the population, Hispanics/

Latinos 17 percent, Asian Americans 14 percent, and multiracial students 11 per-

cent. Merit scholarships average $14,600, but there are no athletic scholarships.

Unlike many of its peers, Occidental stopped pursing wealthy applicants years ago

and started investing in grants and scholarships for lower- income students of color.

The college now meets the full demonstrated financial need of admitted students.

The Barack Obama Scholars Program provides top achievers who have demonstrated

serious commitment to public service with a four- year scholarship covering the full

cost of attendance, as well as funding for three summer experiences, such as intern-

ships or service projects.

The residence halls are small— almost all house fewer than 150 students— and

co- ed by floor or room. Eighty percent of students live on campus, but what you get

depends on your luck in the housing lottery. Freshmen live together in five dedi-

cated first- year halls, and students are required to live on campus and purchase a

meal plan until their senior year, when they can

opt to move off campus. Special- interest hous-

ing, like Multicultural Hall, Food Justice House,

and Queer House, is popular. “The food is fresh

and yummy!” cheers a student. “It’s always changing and they bring in locally

sourced produce.” Resources related to sexual assault include the Project SAFE stu-

dent group, which a senior says “has been absolutely wonderful in creating a safe

and respectful campus.”

While the bustle of L.A. often beckons on weekends, the Oxy campus provides

its share of fun too, whether it be a “basketball game, concert, dance, or party,” says

one student. Greek organizations attract 12 percent of the men and 21 percent of

the women, but they are neither selective nor exclusive; students choose which to

join rather than being chosen, and the frats must invite everyone to their functions.

As for alcohol, “like most other colleges, there is underage drinking even though

this is illegal,” says a junior. Dance Production— a decades- old tradition in which

student dancers perform works by student choreographers— sells out both perfor-

mances each year. Other big events include Apollo Night (a talent contest) and the

Fall Fest and Spring Fest concerts, featuring big- name performers. You may want to

keep your birthday a secret, or on that unhappy day, a roaring pack of your more

sadistic classmates will carry you out to the middle of campus and mercilessly toss

you in the Gilman Fountain. It’s a tradition, after all.

A student characterizes the surrounding neighborhood of Eagle Rock as “a

quaint little community with an eclectic combination of ‘ma and pa’ restaurants

and plenty of hole- in- the- wall stores.” Community outreach is important at

Occidental and dates back to the mid- 1960s,

when the college opened its Community Literacy

Center and one of the country’s first Upward

Bound programs for underserved students. Half

of Oxy students participate in some kind of com-

munity project, most through the Center for

Community Based Learning. When students become weary of the social life in the

“Oxy fishbowl,” they head for the bars, restaurants, museums, and theaters of down-

town Los Angeles and Pasadena, where, one student notes, “You can find almost

anything except snow.” But the ski slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains are not far

away, and neither is Hollywood nor the beautiful beaches of Southern California. A

car (your own or someone else’s) is practically a necessity, though the college runs a

weekend shuttle service to Old Town Pasadena and other popular spots. The weather

is warm and sunny, but the air is sometimes thick with that infamous L.A. smog.

Oxy’s 20 sports teams (the Tigers) compete in Division III. Men’s and women’s

“Students at Oxy are . . .

politically and socially

engaged/opinionated.”

All Oxy students must

show proficiency in a

foreign language and

complete coursework

in world cultures.

The college boasts an

unusual UN program

that allows students

to intern with UN-

related organizations.

“[Eagle Rock is] a quaint

little community with an

eclectic combination of ‘ma

and pa’ restaurants and

hole- in- the- wall stores.”

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OGLETHORPE UNIVERSITY 519

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

cross- country and track and field, men’s and women’s soccer, and men’s water polo

are some of the most competitive teams. Oxy’s 125- year- old football rivalry with

Pomona– Pitzer ended in 2020 when the college discontinued the sport. The school’s

Io Triumphe (“Hurrah, O Triumph”) nonsense chant, a tradition since 1905, has been

mocked for nearly a century by rival Redlands, which made up a gibberish chant of

its own in 1921. Oxy’s small recreational sports program offers intramural soccer

and basketball along with seven club sports; rugby and ultimate Frisbee are popular.

Occidental’s creative, motivated, and diverse students are not here for the bright

lights and beautiful people of Los Angeles; those are just fringe benefits. Instead,

students are drawn to this intimate oasis of learning by professors who hate to see

anyone waste one whit of intellectual potential. “We are pushed to take our writing

and critical thinking to the next level,” says a sociology major. And students here are

only too happy to live up to these lofty expectations.

Overlaps

Carleton, Colorado

College, Macalester,

Pomona, Reed,

Scripps, Pitzer,

University of

Southern California

If You Apply To ›

Oxy: Early decision I and II, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult Oxy’s web-

site for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Oglethorpe University

4484 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30319

Small wonder that brochures for Oglethorpe trumpet Atlanta as the college’s biggest

drawing card. In a region where most liberal arts colleges are in sleepy towns,

Oglethorpe has the South’s most exciting city at its fingertips. Highly diverse student

body and extensive financial aid. Oglethorpe Idea stresses broad academic values,

while interdisciplinary Core Program gives shape to the curriculum.

Founded in 1835, Oglethorpe University is named for the visionary founder of the

state of Georgia, James Edward Oglethorpe. His idealism is well captured in the

school’s motto, Nescit cedere (He does not know how to give up), and in its ambi-

tion to become the first- choice university for high- achieving students in a region

where it faces tough competition from much bigger names. Even as it continues

to increase enrollment, the university remains committed to the Oglethorpe Idea

and to connecting students with real- world experiences. Says a junior, “Although

few outside of the Southeast have heard of it, this school provides a top- notch

education.”

Oglethorpe’s 118- acre campus is strategically located in Brookhaven, one of

Atlanta’s safest and most popular inner suburbs, with a picturesque Gothic campus

that gives a traditional college feel. The heavily

wooded, slightly rolling terrain is perfect terri-

tory for walks or long runs, and the beautiful

campus has served as the backdrop for numerous

movies and TV shows. Oglethorpe’s academic buildings and some residence halls are

in the English Gothic style. Newer facilities include the Cousins Center for Science

and Innovation, featuring laboratory- classrooms and workshops.

The university’s guiding principle is the Oglethorpe Idea— a philosophy based

on the conviction that education should help students make a life, a living, and a

difference. All students take the sequenced, interdisciplinary Core Curriculum pro-

gram at the same point in their college careers, providing them with a model for

Website: www .oglethorpe .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,391

Undergraduates: 1,391

Male/Female: 37/63

Financial Aid: 96%

Pell Grant: 35%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 51%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 2,816

Accepted: 72%

Enrolled: 21%

Grad in 6 Years: 52%

Returning Freshmen: 76%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (404) 364- 8307

Email Address: admission @

oglethorpe .edu

“We tend to be open-

minded, thoughtful, and

intellectual.”

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520 OGLETHORPE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

integrating information and gaining knowledge. In addition to requiring several lib-

eral arts and sciences courses that help develop students’ ability to reason, read, and

speak effectively, the core asks them to reflect on and discuss matters fundamental

to understanding who they are and what they ought to be.

Oglethorpe’s most popular majors— business administration, biology, commu-

nication studies, and psychology— are some of its strongest, along with English,

accounting, film and media studies, theater, and preprofessional advising for a vari-

ety of health and medical fields. Minors in urban leadership and nonprofit manage-

ment are specialties. The art department offers tracks in film production, medical

and scientific illustration, and photography. Aspiring engineers may take advantage

of dual- degree programs with Auburn, Georgia Tech, and other universities, and

future teachers can enroll in a dual- degree program with Mercer.

“I have never breezed through a class,” says an art history major. “The aca-

demics are so rigorous.” Oglethorpe’s faculty may be demanding, but they’re also

friendly and helpful. “They really do care for you intellectually and personally,” says

one junior. Classes are generally small— 76 percent have fewer than 20 students. The

Compass advising program guides students through all aspects of their first year,

while the “A_LAB” (Atlanta Laboratory for Learning) coordinates opportunities like

internships, research, service, and study abroad. Seventeen percent of students sign

up for a wide variety of study abroad programs, including short- term and faculty- led

options. Sophomores and juniors interested in producing an independent honors

thesis can apply for admission to the Honors Program.

What’s an Oglethorpian like? “We tend to be open- minded, thoughtful, and

intellectual,” explains one student. Most come from public schools and 81 percent

are Georgians; 1 percent hail from abroad. Oglethorpe prides itself on being one of

the first Georgia colleges to admit Black students. Currently, 22 percent of students

are Black, 4 percent are Asian American, and 23 percent are Hispanic/Latino.

Socioeconomic diversity is also strong, with

35 percent of freshmen receiving Pell Grants.

“The diversity is one of my favorite things about

our campus,” cheers a senior. Notably, every

admitted student who completes the FAFSA form receives a $500 grant, regardless of

financial need. Merit scholarships are also available, averaging $27,800. In an effort

to earn more national name recognition, Oglethorpe’s Flagship 50 program pledges

to match the in- state tuition rate of each U.S. state’s flagship institution for incom-

ing freshmen who meet certain academic requirements.

Fifty percent of Oglethorpe’s students live on campus— and most love it. “The

dorms are big and have nice furniture,” says an accounting major. Most rooms are

suites with private bathrooms, and some singles are available. Meals in the Petrel’s

Nest dining hall get average reviews. The Healthy Campus Task Force promotes

healthy lifestyles, tackling issues ranging from eating disorders to preventing

sexual assault.

The social scene on campus is active for a small school. “Our Student Government

Association sponsors events like bubble soccer, food truck Fridays, Bob Ross art night,

and more,” explains a human resource management major. Students of legal drink-

ing age are allowed to have alcohol on campus. Fraternities and sororities, which

claim 5 percent of the men and 6 percent of the women, throw parties that draw

big numbers. “Greek parties are really fun but much less raucous/drug- infused than

parties at other schools like UGA and Georgia Tech,” opines one senior. The campus

celebrates its origins once a year during Oglethorpe Day. Named after a 1742 battle

in which James Oglethorpe defeated Spanish troops in southern Georgia, the annual

Battle of Bloody Marsh is a tug- of- war game between students and faculty. Each

holiday season brings a particularly unique tradition: the Boar’s Head Ceremony

(continued)

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Biology

Communication Studies

Psychology

English

Accounting

Film and Media Studies

Theater

“The diversity is one of my

favorite things about our

campus.”

Every admitted

student who completes

the FAFSA form

receives a $500

grant, regardless of

financial need.

The annual Battle

of Bloody Marsh is

a tug- of- war game

between students

and faculty.

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THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY 521

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

celebrates a medieval scholar who halted a stampeding wild boar by ramming his

copy of Aristotle down the animal’s throat.

It’s rumored that Oglethorpe barflies do more hopping than Georgia bullfrogs,

and bars, clubs, and cafés abound within 10 minutes of campus. Students can also

find excitement on the campuses of the dozen or so other colleges in the area or

in downtown Atlanta. “There are always city events like free yoga that are just a

short MARTA ride away!” enthuses a junior. Atlanta proper offers everything you

can imagine— arts, professional sports (including basketball’s Hawks, football’s

Falcons, and baseball’s Braves), and entertainment (ride the Great American Scream

Machine at Six Flags). Oglethorpe always has a big contingent going to Savannah for

St. Patrick’s Day and to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, and sunny Florida beckons too.

Oglethorpe’s mascot, the Stormy Petrel, is a sea bird that flies in the face of

storms. (James Oglethorpe was inspired by them on his first visit to Georgia in 1733.)

Oglethorpe fields 16 Division III varsity sports. The men’s golf team is a powerhouse,

and men’s soccer and tennis are recent Southern Athletic Association champions.

Men’s and women’s basketball games against cross- city rival Emory are popular.

Intramural sports attract about 10 percent of the student body. The Georgia land-

scape makes possible a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking at nearby Stone

Mountain and boating or swimming in Lake Lanier (named for Georgia poet Sidney

Lanier— Oglethorpe Class of 1860).

Though Oglethorpe is still working to achieve widespread name recognition, its

diverse and growing group of students get all the attention they need from a caring

faculty on a close- knit campus. And being in a large city like Atlanta provides any-

thing else that might be lacking, ranging from great nightlife to internships and

postgraduate employment with big- name corporations. In a sea of large Southern

state schools, Oglethorpe stands out as a place where students come first.

Overlaps

Agnes Scott,

Hendrix, Emory

& Henry, Austin

College, Millsaps,

Mercer, Berry

If You Apply To ›

Oglethorpe: Early action, rolling admissions. Please consult Oglethorpe’s website for the most up- to- date information

regarding standardized test requirements. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Application includes optional

questions on gender identity and preferred pronouns.

The Ohio State University

Student Academic Services Building, 381 West Lane, Columbus, OH 43210

The biggest school in the Big Ten, Ohio State competes for top students not only with

Michigan and Wisconsin but also with two other fine Ohio publics, Miami and Ohio

U. Operates the mother of all college sports programs, which consistently racks up

national titles and spills over into undergraduate wellness programs. Check out the

top- notch honors program. Columbus, the capital of Ohio, is booming.

Envision a campus with 52,000 full- time students and too many opportunities to

count. What might come to mind is The Ohio State University (and don’t forget

the “The”— it’s trademarked), located in the heart of the state’s capital, offering 15

colleges and 12,000 courses in more than 200 undergraduate majors. If those num-

bers aren’t staggering enough, consider the fact that OSU has 36 varsity sports, 20

intramural sports, nearly 60 sports clubs, and the third largest campus in the nation.

It also has an operating budget larger than that of the state of Delaware. While

Website: www .osu .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 52,402

Undergraduates: 42,360

Male/Female: 50/50

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522 THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

students cite the school’s size as both a blessing and a curse, all seem to agree that

at OSU, the sky is the limit for those with a desire to sample its academic and other

resources.

This megauniversity stands on 1,665 acres in the middle of the city, just two

miles north of downtown Columbus. “One part of the campus maintains a nostalgic

air while another is relatively modern,” observes a student. The grounds are nicely

landscaped, and a centrally located lake provides

a peaceful setting for contemplation and a break

from all the surrounding activity. OSU’s rich

array of academic resources includes 12 libraries

with eight million volumes. Across the Olentangy

River from campus is a teaching and research farm associated with the College of

Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. The Recreation and Physical

Activity Center (RPAC) is the nation’s largest facility dedicated to student fitness,

wellness, and recreation. In the past decade, eight new residence halls, a dining hall,

and a recreation facility have been added to the campus’s North district, and the

Department of Theatre, Film, and Media Arts building got a $165 million renovation

and expansion.

Ohio State’s general education curriculum gives students the flexibility to

pursue minors or second majors. The university’s commitment to liberal arts learn-

ing remains strong: all undergrads must satisfy requirements that include courses

in writing, math, data analysis, arts and humanities, historical studies, social and

behavioral science, and diversity. Some of the school’s most celebrated departments

include business, engineering, neuroscience, dance, and design; political science

and education are also strong. OSU is internationally known for pioneering work in

computer graphics and animation. The African American and African studies pro-

gram offers one of the most extensive offerings of African languages of any U.S.

university. Furthermore, the university has the nation’s only ABET- accredited pro-

gram in welding engineering and the nation’s first undergraduate program in data

analytics. The majors that enroll the most students include finance, psychology,

communication, and biology. A personalized study program enables students to

create their own majors.

Freshmen may take advantage of numerous first- year programs, including the

First Year Success Series, covering topics like study skills and career exploration,

and pre- enrollment programs like Buckeyes First (for first- generation students).

Once the academic year is underway, they expe-

rience a variety of class formats and sizes, rang-

ing from intimate freshman seminars to large

lectures; overall, 34 percent of undergraduate

classes have fewer than 20 students. “Classes

demand a lot of attention, independence, and

self- advocacy on the part of the student,” com-

ments a sport industry major. Teaching assistants hold smaller recitation sections

of large lecture courses and deal on a personal level with students. Class sizes gen-

erally whittle down as students continue in their fields of study. At such a large

institution, the quality of instruction can vary greatly, and students report this to

be the case.

OSU’s honors program allows selected students to learn from top professors in

small classes averaging about 25 students each. “The whole system of honors classes,

priority scheduling, honors housing, and cocurricular activities really adds to the

overall experience at OSU,” a biology major says. Twenty- four percent of undergrad-

uates participate in research opportunities. Columbus affords students access to

internships with the state government and major tech and research organizations,

(continued)

Financial Aid: 78%

Pell Grant: 17%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 44%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 65,189

Accepted: 53%

Enrolled: 12%

Grad in 6 Years: 88%

Returning Freshmen: 93%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (614) 292- 3980

Email Address: askabuckeye

@ osu .edu

Strong Programs:

Business

Engineering

Neuroscience

Dance

Design

Political Science

Education

Finance

“Classes demand a lot of

attention, independence,

and self- advocacy on the

part of the student.”

“The Scholars Program . . .

puts you in a learning

community with other

people who have the same

major or professional

goals.”

The Recreation and

Physical Activity

Center (RPAC) is

one of the nation’s

largest facilities

dedicated to student

fitness, wellness,

and recreation.

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THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY 523

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

including the IBM Analytics Solutions Lab and Battelle. About 8 percent of students

study abroad through 200 programs offered in more than 50 countries.

“Most students are extremely well- mannered, ambitious, open- minded, and

obsessed with the Buckeyes,” says a loyal sophomore. Seventy- four percent of Ohio

State’s undergraduates hail from Ohio, and most out- of- staters come from Illinois,

Pennsylvania, California, New York, and New Jersey. Seven percent come from for-

eign countries. The student body is 8 percent Black, 5 percent Hispanic/Latino,

9 percent Asian American, and 4 percent multiracial. Several programs aim to attract

and retain students of color, including a statewide Young Scholars Program that

begins working with students when they start the seventh grade. As for politics, a

sociology and political science major opines, “Because we are such a large institu-

tion, there are people from all kinds of social and political backgrounds.” Qualified

students compete for merit scholarships averaging $7,200, and hundreds of athletic

scholarships go to talented athletes each year. The Ohio State Tuition Guarantee sets

and freezes rates for tuition, fees, and room and board for in- state freshmen in each

entering class for four years.

The residence halls, which house 32 percent of the Ohio State students, are

located in three areas: North, South, and Olentangy (that is, those closest to the

Olentangy River). Freshmen and sophomores are required to live in residence halls

unless they are commuting from home, and freshmen are scattered among each

of OSU’s 42 residence halls. A senior advises, “Make sure to look into the Scholars

Program, which puts you in a learning community for four years with other people

who have the same major or professional goals.” Campus residents may choose

from four meal- plan options, and the food gets mostly positive reviews. Buckeyes

ACT is a comprehensive program intended to combat sexual misconduct and rela-

tionship violence on campus.

OSU is a bustling place on weekends. “Social life is never- ending,” cheers one

student. With nearly 1,400 student organizations to choose from, it’s hardly diffi-

cult to find something to get involved with.

Various social events are planned within resi-

dence hall communities. The student union runs

eateries, a tavern, movies, and other activities.

Eight percent of OSU men and 11 percent of the women join fraternities and soror-

ities. “Greek organizations do not dictate social life on campus,” says a junior, and

most partying happens off campus.

Such a large student market has, of course, produced a strip of bars, fast- food

joints, convenience stores, bookstores, vegetarian restaurants, and you- name- its

along the edge of the campus on High Street, and downtown Columbus is just a

few minutes away. The fine public transportation system carries students through-

out this capital city. “There are so many unique neighborhoods to explore,” raves a

junior. “I don’t think I could ever try everything Columbus has to offer during my

four years if I tried.” Columbus boasts a symphony orchestra, a ballet, and profes-

sional hockey and soccer teams; OSU’s D-Tix program offers students discounted or

free tickets to cultural and sporting events. The city’s central location in the state

makes it easily accessible to Cleveland and Cincinnati. Outdoor enthusiasts can ski

in nearby Mansfield, canoe and sail on the Olentangy and Scioto rivers, hike the

city’s 19 metro parks, or camp in nearby Hocking Hills.

Ohio State operates arguably the most lavish— and successful— college sports

program in the nation. The Buckeyes field 16 men’s, 17 women’s, and three co- ed

varsity teams, from golf to gymnastics to riflery. (A buckeye, incidentally, is a small,

shiny nut that falls from Ohio’s official state tree.) Recent national champions

include women’s ice hockey, synchronized swimming, and dance and co- ed pistol,

while Big Ten champs include men’s and women’s tennis and women’s swimming

Ohio State operates

arguably the

most lavish— and

successful— college

sports program

in the nation.

“There are so many unique

neighborhoods to explore

[in Columbus].”

OSU is internationally

known for pioneering

work in computer

graphics and

animation.

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524 OHIO UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and diving. “Football is somewhat like religion,” says one student. “As hard as stu-

dents may work during the school week, everything stops on game day.” Rivalries

abound, although the annual gridiron contest with “That Team Up North”

(Michigan’s Wolverines) gets the most heated; preparations for the big game include

“crossing out every letter M on all campus signs with red tape,” explains a fervent

fan. Many students take advantage of an extensive roster of club sports and an ambi-

tious intramural program that boasts a dozen basketball courts and 26 courts for

handball, squash, and racquetball.

OSU’s sheer size is sometimes overwhelming to be sure, but students here seem

to thrive on the challenge and excitement of a big university, not to mention

Buckeye spirit. For those who really want to be Buckeyes, be prepared to jump in

with both feet and be assertive about your goals. “Knowing what you want is great,

but to get it, you’ll need to work hard,” warns one student. “Because if you want it,

there are likely hundreds of other people who want it too.”

Overlaps

University of

Michigan, U of I at

Urbana– Champaign,

Penn State,

UW– Madison,

University of

Maryland, Miami

University (OH),

University of

Cincinnati, Purdue

If You Apply To ›

OSU: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult OSU’s website for

the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Ohio University

Chubb Hall 120, Athens, OH 45701

OHIO is roughly one- third the size of Ohio State and plays up its homey feel compared

to the cast of tens of thousands in Columbus. The Honors Tutorial College is a draw

for top students who want to work closely with faculty. Communication and journalism

top the list of prominent programs, and learning communities are plentiful. OHIO is not

in the Big Ten, but the Mid- American Conference generates excitement.

With top- notch programs in journalism, business, health care, and engineering, Ohio

University has become a competitive R1 public research institution, without shedding

its small- town roots. Faculty interests range from dinosaur anatomy to rural diabetes

rates. Students here love to hit the town for fun but are quick to hit the books as well.

Those who choose to attend OHIO receive ample returns, says a senior, including “a

quality education, lifelong friends, supportive faculty, and a beautiful campus.”

Established in 1804 as the first institution of higher learning in the old Northwest

Territory, Ohio University is located in Athens, which lies about 75 miles southeast of

Columbus, the state capital, and was named after the ancient center of learning in

Greece. Encircled by winding hills, the campus fea-

tures neo- Georgian architecture, tree- lined redbrick

walkways, and white- columned buildings all clus-

tered on “greens,” which are like small neighbor-

hoods. Long walks are especially nice during the

fall foliage and spring cherry blossoms seasons. In

an effort to improve campus sustainability, all new construction and renovation proj-

ects over $2 million follow standards for LEED Silver or higher certification. Heritage

Hall, a state- of- the- art research facility, is dedicated to advancing medical students.

The BRICKS general education curriculum involves two writing- intensive foun-

dations courses, a standard set of distribution requirements, and an upper- level

Website: www .ohio .edu

Location: Small Town

Public

Total Enrollment: 17,751

Undergraduates: 14,600

Male/Female: 43/57

Financial Aid: 86%

Pell Grant: 26%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 64%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 24,978

Accepted: 87%

Enrolled: 21%

Grad in 6 Years: 65%

Returning Freshmen: 79%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % %

Q of L:

“[Through learning

communities] you can

make connections in your

program in your very first

class.”

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OHIO UNIVERSITY 525

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

capstone course, and it incorporates interdisciplinary, intercultural, and hands- on

learning. Students enroll in nine undergraduate colleges and one center, and the

Scripps College of Communication contains five distinct schools: journalism, infor-

mation and telecommunication systems, communication studies, media arts and

studies, and visual communication. OHIO’s most popular majors are nursing, com-

munication studies, biological sciences, and psychology. The highly regarded jour-

nalism program offers tracks in news and information and strategic communication

in addition to an emphasis on learning to use current and emerging technology.

Nursing and education are also strengths.

OHIO students work hard, but a communication major says the academic envi-

ronment is “open and inviting.” Freshmen are often taught by full professors with

TAs handling study sessions. OHIO supports more than 250 learning communities,

in which 98 percent of first- year students participate; some have a residential com-

ponent, but most do not. “Learning communities are paired with a professor in your

area of study, so you can make connections in your program in your very first class,”

explains a journalism major. Classes of 100- plus students do exist, but 32 percent of

undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students, and faculty make themselves as

available as possible. “The professors are more than willing to help you learn if you

are willing to ask,” says a junior.

One of the advantages of an Ohio University education, and something that sets

the school apart from run- of- the- mill state institutions, is the Honors Tutorial College.

Founded in 1972, it’s the nation’s first multidisciplinary, degree- granting honors pro-

gram modeled on the tutorial method used in

British universities, notably Oxford and Cambridge.

The program is highly selective: fewer than 100

students are accepted into it every year. Students

pursue an individualized curriculum in their major field and spend much of their time

in one- on- one weekly tutorials with profs. Special opportunities abound for those not in

the honors college too. A separate OHIO Honors Program, open to students in all col-

leges, offers challenging small- group seminars and the option to complete honors proj-

ects in traditional classes. Co- op programs are available for engineering students, and

nearly anyone can earn credit for an internship. The Provost’s Undergraduate Research

Fund provides financial support for undergraduate research, and students showcase

about 850 research and creative projects at the university’s annual Student Research

Expo. The Office of Global Opportunities offers worldwide destinations for anywhere

from one week to one year; 11 percent of students study abroad.

“Students at Ohio University are accepting, motivated, and enthusiastic about

being Bobcats,” says a communication studies major. Eighty- six percent of under-

graduates are Ohioans, and 1 percent are international. Students express a desire for

greater diversity on campus: “While we do have a strong Multicultural Center, they

are representing such a small population of students,” says a senior. Just 5 percent of

undergraduates are Black, 4 percent are Hispanic/Latino, 2 percent are Asian

American, and 4 percent are multiracial. The student body’s liberal leanings are pro-

nounced in comparison to the conservatism of southeast Ohio. The OHIO Excellence

Awards program provides merit scholarships and need- based grants for outstanding

students, and the athletically gifted can vie for over 200 scholarships. The “OHIO

Guarantee+” initiative sets fixed rates for each incoming class for tuition, housing,

dining, and most other fees that are guaranteed not to increase for four years. It also

provides students with individualized graduation plans to ensure that they graduate

on time— or OHIO will cover the cost of additional courses.

Forty- nine percent of students live in campus housing. Five LEED- certified resi-

dence halls have been built in recent years. Juniors and seniors usually move to nearby

apartments or rental houses. Both campus dining halls have been renovated and receive

(continued)

Admissions: (740) 593- 4100

Email Address: admissions @

ohio .edu

Strong Programs:

Communication Studies

Journalism

Business

Engineering

Nursing

Education

Management

Marketing

“Students at Ohio University

are . . . enthusiastic about

being Bobcats.”

Students showcase

about 850 research

and creative projects

at the university’s

annual Student

Research Expo.

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526 OHIO WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

positive reviews; one location now accepts food stamps. A senior comments, “There has

been increasingly more transparency from my school about sexual assault, but there can

always be more help and more awareness for this issue and for the [survivors].”

Campus social life includes guest speakers and performers, plays, midnight

movies, and other events. Only about 10 percent of the men and 7 percent of the

women choose to participate in Greek life. The administration has attempted to

curtail underage drinking with a strict alcohol policy, and many students complain

that OHIO’s traditional party- school image overshadows the school’s academic

quality, but an accounting major concedes that “there is definitely a large party

atmosphere.” Students look forward to university- sponsored events such as home-

coming and the International Street Fair, as well as unsanctioned events like the

so- called fest season in Athens. “We are known for our street fests,” says a journal-

ism major. “Almost every Saturday in the spring has a party on a street.” Court Street

is dotted with bars and clubs, and the city’s fabled Halloween celebration is a huge

block party that draws people from all over the Midwest. Volunteer opportunities,

such as Habitat for Humanity and a local homeless shelter, are available through the

Campus Involvement Center. Students also love to hike and camp at the nearby

state parks and national forest or trek to Columbus for shopping.

Division I sports are a big draw at OHIO. The Bobcats field 16 varsity teams,

and men’s basketball is a recent Mid- American Conference champion. The Bobcat

football team makes regular bowl game appearances, and the baseball, women’s

volleyball, soccer, and softball teams are competitive too. The university also boasts

a nationally ranked forensics team. OHIO also offers more than 30 club sports, and

16 percent of students participate in that and intramurals each year; popular choices

include flag football, rugby, and soccer.

Students say Ohio University has much to offer, from quality professors to a vibrant

social life and a sense of community. “We are always looking out for one another,” says

a sophomore, “and we all love Athens— it has a special place in our hearts.”

Five LEED- certified

residence halls

have been built

in recent years.

Overlaps

Ohio State, Miami

(OH), University

of Cincinnati,

Penn State, West

Virginia University,

Colorado State,

Kent State, Bowling

Green State

If You Apply To ›

OHIO: Early action, rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Honors

Tutorial College applicants must interview. Visual and performing arts applicants must submit portfolio or audition.

Ohio Wesleyan University

South Sandusky Street, Delaware, OH 43015

OWU serves up the liberal arts with an emphasis on linking theory and practice. Has

expanded campus housing in recent years as part of efforts to enhance the residential

experience. Attracts middle- of- the- road to liberal students with preprofessional

aspirations. Offers a variety of research, travel, and internship programs, notably

New York Arts and Wesleyan in Washington.

Ohio Wesleyan University is a small school with a big commitment to providing

its students with a well- rounded education. Established in 1842 and traditionally

affiliated with the United Methodist Church, OWU has instituted what it calls an

indefinite “pause” in its relationship with the denomination in response to the

church’s decision in 2019 to strengthen its ban on LGBTQ clergy and same- sex mar-

riages. Hallmarks of an OWU education include strong preparation for graduate and

Website: www .owu .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,390

Undergraduates: 1,390

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OHIO WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY 527

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

professional school, a solid grounding in the liberal arts, real- world experience, and

an emphasis on having fun outside the classroom.

Situated in the center of the state and on the outskirts of Columbus, OWU’s

spacious 200- acre campus is peaceful and quaint. Several buildings are on the

National Register of Historic Places. The architecture ranges from Greek Revival

to colonial to modern, with brick academic buildings on one side of a down-

town thoroughfare that runs through the campus and dormitories and frater-

nities on the other side. Stately University Hall, with its majestic spire and bell

tower, is the main campus landmark and houses the president’s office and the

1,100- seat Gray Chapel, home to the largest Klais organ in the United States.

In a significant expansion of campus housing, the university has opened four

duplexes for living/learning communities, renovated a first- year residence hall,

and built a new apartment village for seniors.

OWU launched a new general education curriculum in 2023 that shifted the

focus from discipline- based requirements to capability- based courses and includes

a problem- solving first- year seminar focusing on a complex global challenge.

Students must also take a college writing semi-

nar and at least one course in each of nine core

competencies that include the arts, sciences,

communications, foreign languages, power and

diversity, and more. The most popular majors

are psychology, zoology, business, environmental science, and botany and micro-

biology. Preprofessional education has always been Ohio Wesleyan’s forte, espe-

cially in business; the curriculum also includes majors in education, nutrition, and

data analytics, and the highly popular zoology, botany, and microbiology majors

are interesting alternatives to the traditional premed route. Nursing, dentistry,

optometry, veterinary medicine, law, and public administration round out the list

of preprofessional offerings. The Woltemade Center for Economics, Business, and

Entrepreneurship caters to budding entrepreneurs, and the music and fine arts

programs offer both professional and liberal arts degrees. Classes are small, with

65 percent enrolling fewer than 20 students, and an economics and psychology

major says, “Professors want to see their students thrive and help them every step

of the way.”

All students are required to participate in the OWU Connection, supplementing

their major with interdisciplinary learning, global perspectives, service learning, and

practical experiences; students may fulfill these expectations by choosing from a

number of pathways, such as special courses, study abroad, internships, and inde-

pendent projects. The Career Connection office guides students from every major

and helps them to secure internships across the country. Students seeking financial

support for such endeavors may apply for a Theory- to- Practice Grant. The honors

program offers qualified students one- on- one tutorials and a chance to conduct

research with faculty members in areas of mutual interest. Students who desire

careers in public policy and service may choose to pursue a semester- long internship

through the Wesleyan in Washington program, while others may join the New York

Arts program to spend a semester in Manhattan in apprenticeships with working

professionals in the arts and creative industries. The university’s travel- learning

courses, which append one to two weeks of travel to a regular semester- long class,

are particularly popular.

Sixty- three percent of students come from Ohio and 7 percent are interna-

tional. Students agree that diversity could be improved but is valued on campus;

Black students make up 7 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 6 per-

cent, Asian Americans 3 percent, and multiracial students 5 percent. Liberals

and conservatives are well represented on campus, and hot topics include racial,

(continued)

Male/Female: 44/56

Financial Aid: 99%

Pell Grant: 27%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 70%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 5,324

Accepted: 52%

Enrolled: 16%

Grad in 6 Years: 66%

Returning Freshmen: 82%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 922- 8953

Email Address: owuadmit @

owu .edu

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Zoology

Botany

Microbiology

Psychology

Communication

Exercise Science

Education

“Professors want to see

their students thrive and

help them every step of the

way.”

OWU launched a new

general education

curriculum in 2023

that includes a

problem- solving

first- year seminar

focusing on a complex

global challenge.

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528 OHIO WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

gender, and sexual equality. Merit scholarships averaging $32,400 are available for

qualified students.

Eighty- two percent of OWU students live in university- sponsored housing.

All but one of the dorms are co- ed, and rooms are mostly doubles or apartment-

style, four- person suites. All fraternities offer a residential option, and there is a

Panhellenic House for women in sororities. “We have small- living units or SLUs,

which are essentially themed houses,” says a senior. “The members of these houses

do house projects every semester for the campus and are an extremely important

part of the OWU community.” Students enjoy numerous culinary choices, from

24/7, all- you- can- eat in the main dining hall to snacks from the college grocery

store, although the price of meals is a common complaint. The Department of

Public Safety operates the SafeRide program, where student employees use an OWU-

branded vehicle to safely provide passage for other students at night.

“There are many social events on campus to keep students busy and entertained.

The school hosts many functions, like laser tag or roller- skating or different events

with free food,” says a sophomore. Does the buttoned- down seriousness of recent

years mean that OWU has forsaken its heritage of raucous partying? Administrators

certainly hope so. Part of OWU’s commitment to mend its partying ways includes dry

rush for all fraternities and an armband policy at parties. Still, Greek membership

attracts 21 percent of men and 18 percent of women. “There is definitely pressure to

drink, because so many people do it every weekend,” says one student. Among OWU’s

best- loved traditions are homecoming in the fall and the President’s Ball in December.

Day on the Jay, held at the beginning of the year and again at the end of the spring

semester, is a carnival- like celebration with games, inflatables, and plenty of free food.

The city of Delaware (population 42,000) is “adorable,” says one junior. “There

are several small shops and restaurants that are also relatively diverse from Greek to

Cajun to just regular pizza and burger joints.” The Little Brown Jug, one of harness

racing’s Triple Crown events, takes place each

autumn, bringing thousands of people to the

city. Sixty- five percent of students devote more

than 40,000 hours to community service annu-

ally, either through mission trips or local service

projects like Habitat for Humanity, Delaware Reads, and the Delaware County

Humane Society. “Because of the high amount of volunteering that OWU students

do in Delaware, we have a fairly good relationship with the town,” one student says.

Ohio’s capital and largest city, Columbus, is only 30 minutes away by car and offers

many internship and job opportunities. Lakes, farms, and even ski slopes are within

a few hours’ drive.

OWU’s Division III Battling Bishops are a North Coast Athletic Conference pow-

erhouse. Men’s soccer, men’s and women’s basketball, field hockey, and men’s and

women’s track and field are among the strongest teams. Sports fever carries over into

intramural and club sports; ultimate Frisbee and rugby draw the most enthusiasm.

Ohio Wesleyan offers a solid liberal arts education focused not on bells and

whistles, but on practical, career- related experience. “Ohio Wesleyan is a place

where the education goes well beyond the classroom,” says one student. “The family

atmosphere and the opportunities that the college provides you enrich the entire

college experience.”

Among OWU’s best-

loved traditions are

homecoming in the fall

and the President’s

Ball in December.

“The school hosts many

functions, like laser tag or

roller- skating or different

events with free food.”

Overlaps

College of Wooster,

Allegheny,

Denison, DePauw,

Earlham, Miami

(OH), Otterbein,

Wittenberg

If You Apply To ›

OWU: Early decision, early action, rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with

supplement.

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UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA 529

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

University of Oklahoma

1000 Asp Avenue, Room 127, Norman, OK 73019

Tops among public universities in attracting National Merit Scholars, OU is strong in

engineering and geology- related fields. Check out the nationally recognized Honors

College and the growing variety of living/learning options. Football aside, OU has

traditionally lacked the visibility of rival UT Austin. Counseling services are a national

model.

The University of Oklahoma has more to boast about than its powerhouse football

program. Founded in 1890, OU has capitalized on its Great Plains location by cul-

tivating strengths in petroleum and geological engineering, meteorology, and the

history and culture of the American West. It has also worked to make itself, in the

words of a first- year student, “a large university with a small- town vibe” by capping

the size of freshman comp courses and establishing residential colleges. Couple that

with a genuine friendliness among the student body, and it’s easy to understand

this favorite saying: “Sooner born and Sooner bred, when I die, I’ll be Sooner dead!”

Located about 20 miles south of Oklahoma City, OU’s 3,500- acre Norman

campus features tree- lined streets and predominantly redbrick buildings. Many are

historic in nature and built in the Cherokee Gothic or Prairie Gothic style. The

Norman campus is home to 16 colleges; six med-

ical and health- related colleges are located on the

OU Health Sciences Center campus in Oklahoma

City, and programs from colleges on both campuses are also offered at OU’s

Schusterman Center in Tulsa. The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

houses more than 10 million artifacts, including the oldest work of art ever found in

North America— a lightning bolt painted on an extinct bison skull— and the largest

Apatosaurus on display in the world. Newer facilities include the 75,000- square- foot

Gallogly Hall, the university’s first LEED Gold– certified building, which houses the

biomedical engineering program.

OU’s general education requirements consist of coursework in symbolic and

oral communication (including English composition), natural science, social sci-

ence, and arts and humanities. Freshmen must take a First- Year Experience course,

choosing one of three options: Gateway to Belonging at OU, Global Perspectives and

Engagement, and Ethical Leadership Development. Students must also complete at

least one upper- division course outside of their major. Most OU first- years start out

in University College before choosing among OU’s degree- granting colleges.

The most popular majors include business, engineering, communication and

journalism, and psychology. The Gallogly College of Engineering offers aerospace,

civil, mechanical, and environmental engineering, among others. The Mewbourne

College of Earth and Energy provides programs in geology, geophysics, and paleon-

tology, and its petroleum engineering program ranks among the best in the nation.

OU is home to the largest school of meteorology in the country and the National

Weather Center. In the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences, the natural sci-

ences, notably chemistry, are strong. The Price College of Business, OU’s second- largest

college, offers a dozen majors, including energy management, entrepreneurship and

venture management, and healthcare business. Other well- recognized programs at

OU include history of the American West and Native American studies majors and

a minor in Constitutional studies. The Rainbolt College of Education’s rigorous

teacher- certification program, Teacher Education Plus, incorporates field experi-

ence, mentoring, and instruction from 63 full- time faculty.

Website: www .ou .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 22,293

Undergraduates: 18,453

Male/Female: 49/51

Financial Aid: 92%

Pell Grant: 24%

Expense: Pub $

Student Loans: 45%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 21,548

Accepted: 73%

Enrolled: 26%

Grad in 6 Years: 76%

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (405) 325- 2151

Email Address: admissions @

ou .edu

Strong Programs:

Petroleum Engineering

Geology

Meteorology

Chemistry

Energy Management

Entrepreneurship and Venture

Management

History of the American West

Native American Studies

“[OU is] a large university

with a small- town vibe.”

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530 UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

“I have never had a course that is impossible,” comments a psychology major,

“but I have also never been in a class that requires little effort.” Study groups are

common, and students recommend University College’s academic tutoring and

advising services. OU has worked to address large

classes and is one of the nation’s few public uni-

versities to cap first- year English comp courses at

no more than 19 students; overall, 47 percent of

undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 stu-

dents. In the past two decades, increased private support has allowed OU to create

significantly more endowed faculty positions, helping the school attract and retain

talented professors. “Professors do a great job of engaging students and making the

material easy to understand and fun to learn,” says one sophomore. OU’s recently

expanded advising service offers support on topics ranging from financial and

mental health issues to life skills.

The rigorous Honors College offers 2,200 students small classes with outstand-

ing faculty members, independent study options, and opportunities to apply for

competitive funded research programs, including the Honors Research Assistant

Program. Students across the university compete for Undergraduate Research

Opportunities Program grants of up to $1,000 to support faculty- mentored research

and creative work. Study abroad opportunities are available in 80 countries, includ-

ing programs at OU’s study centers in Italy and Mexico. Students are often able to

apply their financial aid to study abroad, and special scholarships are available for

qualified students as well.

A nursing major says OU students create a “lively, energetic, young, and studious”

atmosphere on campus. Fifty- nine percent of undergraduates hail from the Sooner state,

and 3 percent come from abroad. Black students account for 5 percent, Asian Americans

7 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 13 percent, American

Indians 3 percent, and multiracial students 10 per-

cent. A meteorology major describes the political

climate as “open and accepting,” with greater diversity of views than one tends to find

in the rest of the very red state. Qualified students receive scholarships based on aca-

demic merit, with awards averaging $3,100, and there are also more than 250 athletic

scholarships in 17 sports. OU offers a variety of special aid programs aimed at making

the university more affordable for low- income students.

About a third of OU undergraduates live on campus, and the university is making

living/learning communities a major focus. The residence halls and Cross Village are

mostly occupied by first- year students, who can choose to live on specific academic

floors or at the Honors College. Residential colleges modeled after those at Yale and

Oxford also serve as living/learning communities and are the preferred option, along

with the OU Traditions Square apartment community, for upperclassmen. Come meal-

time, one student says, “Eating at the Caf is like eating dinner with the whole freshman

class every night.” Students say they feel safe on campus and praise programs like OU

Advocates and required trainings for their efforts in sexual assault prevention.

The OU social scene is vibrant and well balanced with on- campus activities and

off- campus fun. Twenty- eight percent of men and 32 percent of women go Greek.

Although the dorms and Greek houses are dry, off- campus fraternity parties are

the highlight of weekends at OU. The “three- strikes” alcohol policy “has greatly

cut down on alcohol incidents” on campus, says one student. Campus Corner,

located right across the street from campus, is another source of nightlife, with

several restaurants and bars, as well as coffee shops and boutiques. Norman, pop-

ulation 128,000, is Oklahoma’s third- largest city, and Oklahoma City is just 20 min-

utes away. OU’s annual day of volunteering, the Big Event, sends more than 5,000

students into the community for a day of service. Favorite traditions include the

“Eating at the Caf is like

eating dinner with the

whole freshman class every

night.”

OU is one of the

nation’s few public

universities to cap

first- year English

comp courses at no

more than 19 students.

“Professors do a great job

of engaging students.”

The annual Big Event

sends more than

5,000 students into

the community for

a day of service.

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OLIN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING 531

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

University Sing talent show, tailgating, and, of course, the annual road trip to Dallas

for the OU– Texas football game.

OU is known for successful Division I athletics and is capitalizing on that rep-

utation by moving to the Southeastern Conference in 2025. Sooner football has

brought home the Big 12 Conference title seven times in recent years. “Every foot-

ball game day, the town swells to over 500,000 people, and I consider game days an

all- day festival,” says a letters major. The women’s gymnastics team was the national

champion in 2022, and the softball team took home its third straight national title

in 2023. The men’s gymnastics and men’s and women’s basketball teams make reg-

ular NCAA Tournament appearances too. Recreational and intramural programs

attract 16 percent of the undergraduate population, and flag football and basketball

are especially popular.

“OU offers the classic college experience,” says a senior. Indeed, students at

Oklahoma have a lot to brag about. “The educational opportunities are top- notch,”

says one junior, and “a student can come from anywhere and find that they are part

of something special.” If you’re searching for a school with plenty of spirit and a

feeling of family, OU may be worth a look— sooner, rather than later.

Overlaps

UT Austin, Texas

A&M, University

of Kansas, CU

Boulder, Texas

Christian,

Oklahoma State,

Texas Tech, Baylor

If You Apply To ›

OU: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult OU’s website for the

most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Olin College of Engineering

1000 Olin Way, Needham, MA 02492

BEST

BUY

Olin opened its doors in 2002 with an innovative and forward- looking project- based

curriculum and a commitment to turning out “technologists with soul.” Already an

elite institution that competes head- to- head with Caltech and MIT for top students.

Every enrolled student gets a hefty merit scholarship. Located in Needham, near

Babson and Wellesley, on the outskirts of Boston.

In the mid- 1990s, leaders of the F. W. Olin Foundation began daydreaming about

what “state- of- the- art” engineering education for the 21st century would look like.

Two decades and $470 million later they have their answer: the Franklin W. Olin

College of Engineering. This elite engineering school aims to turn out farsighted grad-

uates who are not only technically competent but who can “come up with innovative

ideas and products.” The curriculum is project- based, and students become as com-

fortable in the machine shop as in labs and classrooms. The founders also decided

that, rather than gradually building up the quality and reputation of their new school,

they would invest in excellence from the get- go. By offering every enrolled student

a half- tuition scholarship worth more than $115,000 over four years, Olin has suc-

ceeded in luring superbright students away from Caltech, MIT, and other engineering

highfliers. Sure, the college lacks the rich tradition and reputation for research of more

established institutions. But that doesn’t seem to bother the more than 350 students

who have latched on to perhaps the best deal in U.S. higher education.

Olin’s 70- acre campus is located adjacent to Babson College in a pleasant suburb

less than 15 miles west of Boston. The campus design is an innovative blend of the

traditional and futuristic. Five buildings curve around a central green space, creating

Website: www .olin .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 356

Undergraduates: 356

Male/Female: 50/50

Financial Aid: 100%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 34%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 862

Accepted: 19%

Enrolled: 45%

Grad in 6 Years: 94%

Returning Freshmen: 99%

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532 OLIN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

a sense of community and echoing the design of the traditional New England col-

lege. The modular classrooms set the stage for hands- on work, and there are plenty

of meeting and public spaces to encourage the kind of collaboration called for in

modern- day engineering.

Olin’s innovative curriculum emphasizes science and engineering, as well as

business and entrepreneurship. Students choose from three majors— electrical and

computer engineering, mechanical engineering, or a self- designed major in engineer-

ing with a concentration, such as bioengineering,

computing, design, robotics, or sustainability. In

addition, students must complete 30 credits of

math and science and 28 credits of arts, human-

ities, social sciences, and entrepreneurship. The course catalog is thin, especially in

liberal arts subjects, but students can and do take courses at nearby Babson, Wellesley,

and even Brandeis.

The hands- on nature of Olin’s curriculum means that students start engineering

right away with relatively simple projects, building mechanical systems intended

to mimic animals or insects that hop in the first- semester Design Nature course.

They then progress to more sophisticated challenges like Principles of Integrated

Engineering, in which they build a project involving electronic, mechanical, and

software components (such as an automatic cake decorator or a light- seeking flower

pot). Concern for “engineering design” is built into every subject. Each student also

completes one of two options— SCOPE (Senior Capstone Program in Engineering) or

ADE (Affordable Design and Entrepreneurship)— for a yearlong, team- based senior

capstone project, in which they apply their knowledge to solving real- world prob-

lems, in partnership with outside organizations or communities.

Courses are rigorous, but working in teams and across disciplines is the norm for

faculty as well as students. “We work very hard, and we work a lot,” says one senior,

“but there’s no real feeling of anything but the friendliest competition.” Grading

starts after the first semester. Fifty- one percent of all classes have fewer than 20 stu-

dents, and all are led by professors, with whom students are on a first- name basis.

Prospective faculty members must go through an extensive interview and audition

process, and once hired, none are ever granted tenure. Like their students, many of

them have been lured from the likes of MIT because they like the challenge of helping

to create what one of them termed “the model of engineering for the future.” A soph-

omore explains, “The professors value feedback from the students very highly— courses

are often altered halfway through the semester with suggestions from the students.”

First- year students participate in an interactive, weeklong orientation program

that includes team- building exercises, meetings, and meals with faculty and advi-

sors, as well as a trip into Boston. The college also encourages students to engage in

“Passionate Pursuits” by enabling them to

pursue personal interests via independent proj-

ects, for which they receive nondegree academic

credit and, often, funding. A sampling of stu-

dent projects includes rock climbing, guitar

making, marathon training, gelato making, and Bhangra (Indian folk dancing).

Olin offers several direct- exchange options, as well as preapproved programs at

approximately 40 institutions around the world; 26 percent of students study away

from campus. Eighty- three percent conduct research with faculty members.

“We’re all engineers, but we have social skills!” asserts a senior. Only 12 per-

cent of students hail from Massachusetts, and 7 percent come from abroad. Black

students represent a mere 3 percent of the student body, Asian Americans 21 per-

cent, Hispanics/Latinos 10 percent, and multiracial students 11 percent. Students

appreciate the balanced male/female ratio as “very uncommon” for an engineering

(continued)

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (781) 292- 2222

Email Address: info @ olin .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Electrical and Computer

Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

“The professors value

feedback from the students

very highly.”

Many students join

extracurricular project

teams that participate

in competitions

like Formula SAE,

SAE Baja, and

robotic sailing.

“I think our healthy

disregard for tradition

makes life a little more

interesting.”

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OLIN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING 533

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

school, and according to a sophomore, “Students are generally liberal but not par-

ticularly active in promoting political issues.” To make sure that it selects students

who are a good fit for Olin’s unique approach to engineering, the admissions office

invites approximately 250 applicants to attend one of three “candidates’ weekends”

in the spring, where they learn about the school, take part in team projects such

as building a weight- bearing bridge out of Styrofoam, and go through a 25- minute

interview with a team that may include faculty, staff, students, and alumni. About

150 of these students are accepted, and about 40 are placed on a waitlist. In addition

to awarding half- tuition scholarships, Olin guarantees to meet 100 percent of any

remaining demonstrated financial need for all enrolled domestic students.

All students live on campus in Olin’s two residence halls, first- years and sopho-

mores in doubles in West Hall and upperclassmen in either doubles or suites in East

Hall. Meal options in Olin’s sole dining hall get average reviews. Olin operates with a

student- designed honor system that makes for unlocked rooms and take- home exams.

“You can leave your laptop in the lounge, and it won’t walk off,” says a senior. Campus

security is good and “students do feel physically safe,” says one student.

When students aren’t laboring over the latest Modeling and Simulation of the

Physical World assignment, they tend to congregate on campus for fun. “There are par-

ties in the residence halls, and the Student Activities Committee hosts some sort of

schoolwide event every weekend,” says a junior.

There are no Greek organizations, and students say

the social scene does not revolve around alcohol.

“The campus alcohol policies are quite reasonable,” says a student, “relying largely on

student responsibility.” The student orchestra has no conductor— or, as the joke goes,

“not even a semiconductor.” When the campus scene grows tiresome, students often

travel to nearby Babson (on foot) or Wellesley (by shuttle bus) to mingle. Aside from

frequent visits to Boston, students enjoy road trips to Vermont or the beaches of Maine.

The surrounding town of Needham “isn’t a great college town but does have some

good restaurants,” says a sophomore. Students take advantage of volunteer opportu-

nities, and the college organizes community- oriented events, such as a charity auction

where students offer up everything from original artwork to haircutting services.

Campus traditions, however, are few and far between. “I think our healthy disregard

for tradition makes life a little more interesting,” says a senior, adding, “We do have a

traditional spring formal and an academic exposition at the end of each semester.”

Although Olin does not offer varsity sports, two competitive club sports are

available: soccer in the fall and ultimate Frisbee in the spring. In addition, “pick- up

leagues have evolved for soccer, Frisbee, football, and basketball,” says a junior, and

students are allowed to participate in intramural sports at Babson and Wellesley.

Many students join extracurricular project teams that participate in competitions

like Formula SAE, SAE Baja, and robotic sailing.

For those who have what it takes, Olin College offers a top- notch engineering

degree at a bargain price. Olin students have watched their school grow up and blos-

som before their eyes, frequently taking part in shaping its innovative approach to

engineering education. Students here value interdisciplinary, project- based instruc-

tion, and the importance of “learning to learn,” and they graduate inspired to shake

up the workforce. As one junior comments, “Olin is pretty quirky, and we like to

think we’re different— passionate, weird, and doing fun things.”

Every enrolled

student is offered

a half- tuition

scholarship worth

more than $115,000

over four years.

“We’re all engineers, but we

have social skills!”

Courses are rigorous,

but working in teams

and across disciplines

is the norm for faculty

as well as students.

Overlaps

MIT, Stanford,

Caltech, Harvey

Mudd, UC

Berkeley, Yale,

Carnegie Mellon,

Rose- Hulman

If You Apply To ›

Olin: Regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult Olin’s website for the most

up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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534 UNIVERSITY OF OREGON

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

University of Oregon

1585 E 13th Ave, Eugene, OR 97403- 1226

A flagship university of manageable size in a great location, UO is notable for its

emphasis on the undergraduate educational experience in and out of the classroom.

Liberal arts are more than just a slogan, and programs in the sciences, business,

and communication are strong. Splashy sports program plays a big role in shaping

the vibrant campus life and culture. Lagging state funding assures that it lacks the

academic range of larger flagship universities.

Blend two vegetarians, one track star, one fraternity brother, two tree huggers, three

hikers, and one conservative. What have you got? Ten UO students. Sure, the joke’s

hokey, but its offbeat humor is typical of the laid- back, slightly eccentric attitude

that prevails here in Eugene, where bicycling is the main form of transportation,

recycling is a requirement, and littering is déclassé. As the most accessible of the

West Coast flagship universities, the University of Oregon attracts brainy students

who are proud of their quirky ways.

UO’s buildings date from as early as 1876 and are surrounded by the universi-

ty’s lush 295- acre arboretum- like campus, which boasts more than 4,000 trees rep-

resenting nearly 500 species. Many academic buildings were built before World

War II and represent a blend of classical styles,

including Georgian, Second Empire, Jacobin,

and Lombardic. Major renovations have been

made to the Student Recreation Center and the

Erb Memorial Union, and new residence halls

have gone up in recent years or are under construction. Among other newer build-

ings is a 160,000- square- foot, glass- and- steel facility, part of the Knight Campus for

Accelerating Scientific Impact (funded in part by UO alum and Nike cofounder Phil

Knight and his wife).

Oregon’s academic calendar is organized by quarters, and its general educa-

tion program consists of standard distribution requirements, as well as one course

exploring difference, inequality, and agency in the U.S. and one course on global

perspectives. Each summer, the university offers IntroDUCKtion to new students,

featuring opportunities for orientation, registration, and advisement. First- Year

Interest Groups (FIGs) help new students develop close working and advising rela-

tionships with faculty members and other students. Each FIG consists of 20 fresh-

men who take three courses together around a common theme, such as Going Green

and Path to Global Citizenship.

UO’s professional schools— journalism, design, education, law, business, and

music and dance— are highly regarded, and considered to be more accessible to

entry- level students than similar programs elsewhere. The most popular majors

include business administration, psychology, general social science, and psychol-

ogy. The College of Design is the home of sought- after programs in architecture,

landscape architecture, and interior architecture— the state’s only accredited degrees

in these fields. In the College of Arts and Sciences, environmental studies is strong,

and the science departments enjoy advanced resources and research opportunities

in fields like nanotechnology, optogenetics, and neuropsychology. Pine Mountain

Observatory, a field- study resource for astronomy and physics students located high

in the Cascade Mountains, and the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology give students

a chance for hands- on studies in their major. The interdisciplinary comics and car-

toon studies minor is the first of its kind in the nation. Among several new majors

Website: www .uoregon .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 21,421

Undergraduates: 18,185

Male/Female: 44/56

Financial Aid: 68%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 42%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 37,154

Accepted: 86%

Enrolled: 17%

Grad in 6 Years: 73%

Returning Freshmen: 86%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (800) 232- 3825

Email Address: uoadmit @

uoregon .edu

Strong Programs:

Journalism

Design

Education

Business

Music

Dance

Architecture

Environmental Studies

“The academic climate at

the University of Oregon

is collaborative yet

challenging.”

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UNIVERSITY OF OREGON 535

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

offered are cybersecurity, popular music, Native American and Indigenous studies,

and environmental design.

“The academic climate at the University of Oregon is collaborative yet challeng-

ing,” says an accounting major. “Above all else, it is what you make of it.” Thirty-

seven percent of classes have fewer than 20 students. The quality of instruction

varies, and it’s not uncommon to find teaching assistants handling some of the

teaching duties, but a math major says most professors are knowledgeable and will

“check in on students’ progress.” A senior adds that it is possible to find “supportive

and encouraging mentors” among the faculty.

Highly motivated undergraduates may apply to the Clark Honors College, a

small liberal arts college with its own four- year curriculum that includes a senior

thesis and opportunities for exclusive research assistantships. Student- run commu-

nity internship programs provide credit for community volunteer work. Twenty-

nine percent of undergrads study or complete internships abroad during their time

at UO, and more than 300 programs are offered in more than 90 countries.

Only half of undergraduates are native Oregonians, largely because the university

has increasingly relied on revenue from full- paying outsiders to balance the budget.

“There are a lot of people from California,” says a freshman, and “a lot of artsy hipsters.”

International students account for 4 percent of the

student body. Asian Americans represent 7 per-

cent, Black students 3 percent, Hispanics/Latinos

15 percent, and multiracial students 9 percent.

“The political climate is skewed liberal all across campus,” notes a sophomore. Numerous

merit scholarships worth an average of $6,700 are awarded to qualified students, as are

more than 100 athletic scholarships in 20 sports. The PathwayOregon program covers

tuition and fees for Pell- eligible Oregonians.

Twenty- nine percent of UO students live in the university’s 10 residence halls,

which are a mix of traditional halls and modern high- rises. Freshmen are required to

reside on campus. A student says of the rooms, “They are pretty small, but I love

the cozy feeling.” There are a number of thematic living arrangements, including the

Global Scholars Hall, the Clark Honors College, and Kalapuya Ilihi Hall, which is

named for the native inhabitants of the Willamette Valley and offers communities

for Native American and indigenous studies, social activism, art and design, and

media and social action. Students can choose from five meal plans, and 14 dining

venues serve up fresh, diverse menus. “The food on campus is actually amazing,” says

a sophomore. Students say they feel secure on campus, but some cite the growing

homeless population just off campus as a safety concern. Even so, a senior reports,

“There is a ride service called Duck Rides that can pick you up within a five- mile

radius of campus and bring you back to your residence hall or off- campus apartment

for free, no questions asked, to ensure students’ safety.”

Sixteen percent of UO men and 17 percent of the women join Greek organiza-

tions, which provide living space, interesting social diversions, and a wealth of lead-

ership and community service opportunities. “The university plays host to a variety

of concerts, culture nights, film viewings, guest

lecturers, sporting events, and dances,” a journal-

ism major says. Students 21 and over may have

alcohol in their rooms, but only with the doors

closed. A junior says, “There are large parties hap-

pening around campus most nights of the week for people who would like to spend

their time on such activities,” but there is no pressure to do so. Everyone looks for-

ward to the biannual Street Faire that brings local vendors to campus in the fall and

the spring. “There is great food, local businesses, and artists, and everyone on campus

gets to enjoy something different,” explains a psychology major. Other major events

Major renovations

have been made to the

Student Recreation

Center and the Erb

Memorial Union.

“The political climate is

skewed liberal all across

campus.”

The interdisciplinary

comics and cartoon

studies minor is

the first of its kind

in the nation.

“[At football games]

thousands of students

whoop and holler and

scream their lungs out.”

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536 OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

include the Willamette Valley Music Festival, where big- name artists perform for stu-

dents on campus, and, of course, every home football game, where “thousands of

students whoop and holler and scream their lungs out” for their Ducks.

Eugene (population 175,000) offers plenty of popular hangouts and is, according

to one enthusiastic student, “the best college town ever! Everything about Eugene is

based around the Ducks!” The one drawback to all this fun is Oregon’s weather: it rains

and rains from late fall through spring. Still, the moist climate rarely dampens enthu-

siasm for the many expeditions available through the university’s well- coordinated

outdoor program, from rock climbing to skiing. An hour to the west, the rain turns to

mist on the Pacific Coast; an hour to the east, it turns to snow in the Cascade Mountains.

Those who stick around all year are rewarded with green, sunny summers.

UO’s official mascot is a whimsical yellow- and- green likeness of Donald Duck.

The athletic program is financially independent of the university, and the Ducks

continue to dominate their Division I athletic rivals. As of 2024, they joined the

Big 10. The women’s program made NCAA history by becoming the first to win

national titles in women’s cross- country, indoor track, and outdoor track in the

same season— the “triple crown.” Football, men’s track and field and golf, and wom-

en’s basketball have had impressive successes as well. Duck fans love cheering on

their teams, especially during the annual football game against archrival Oregon

State, a grudge match that has been playing out since 1894. Intramurals are another

time- honored pastime here, with flag football, basketball, soccer, and softball being

the most popular.

A recent University of Oregon Orientation Week T-shirt sported a picture of a

duck and a simple exhortation: “Let your future take flight.” UO offers ample oppor-

tunities for those with lofty ambitions to succeed. Indeed, UO’s accessible academ-

ics, expert faculty, and abundance of social activities confirm that UO is all it’s

quacked up to be.

Major events include

the Willamette Valley

Music Festival, where

big- name artists

perform for students.

Overlaps

University of

Arizona, CU

Boulder, UCLA,

UW– Madison,

University

of Maryland,

University of

Washington,

Oregon State,

Cal Poly– San Luis

Obispo

If You Apply To ›

UO: Early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR 97331

The biggest dilemma facing the typical 18- year- old Oregonian is whether to be

a Beaver or a Duck. Choose Duck and hang with the ex- hippies in cosmopolitan

Eugene. Choose Beaver and get small- town life with professional programs in

business, engineering, and life sciences in Corvallis. Strong STEM focus, along with

global emphasis.

Once known as Moo U, there’s much more to Oregon State University than cows,

fruits, and vegetables. One of the most accessible West Coast public universities,

OSU is strong in many departments, including biotechnology, forestry, and engi-

neering. As a land grant university founded in 1858, OSU offers abundant research

opportunities and co- op work experiences, especially for students in STEM fields.

Says one satisfied student, “Anyone would be lucky to be at Oregon State.”

Located in the pristine but rainy Willamette Valley, OSU’s campus is a mix of

older buildings and more modern structures. In addition to the 500- acre main campus,

Website: www .oregonstate

.edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 22,887

Undergraduates: 19,697

Male/Female: 51/49

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OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY 537

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

OSU owns 13,000 acres of forestland near campus and numerous agricultural tracts

throughout Oregon. Thousands of azalea and rhododendron bushes welcome spring-

time on campus with their colorful blooms, and summers are unfailingly sunny.

Newer facilities include the eco- friendly, $65 million Oregon Forest Science Complex.

OSU’s extensive Baccalaureate Core requires courses in a variety of areas, includ-

ing skills; perspectives; and difference, power, and discrimination. One writing-

intensive course is required as well. Perhaps the core’s most innovative facet is its

“synthesis” requirement, in which upperclass-

men take two interdisciplinary courses on global

issues in the modern world. The level of aca-

demic pressure varies by major, but even those in

the various honors programs say they don’t feel overworked. Although classes can

be large, a senior says, “Professors make sure to get to know each individual and

work with them, so that we as students gain the most from our education.”

OSU’s College of Liberal Arts ranks with business and engineering as the largest

on campus, but there are many more preprofessionals than poets. With the excep-

tions of history and English, the liberal arts— including such standard fare as sociol-

ogy, economics, and philosophy— play second fiddle to more practical, technical

fields. The business school offers some of the finest business- related programs in

the state, and majors in forestry, natural resources, marine biology, oceanography,

climate science, and engineering are strong drawing cards. Even though agriculture

doesn’t lure as many students as it used to, those who do come find excellent pro-

grams, including agricultural sciences, animal sciences, and food science and tech-

nology. Computer science, business administration, mechanical engineering, and

psychology are among the most popular majors.

Students in the Honors College participate in small seminars with top professors

and hands- on research, culminating in a senior thesis. The university’s small- town

location makes it difficult to find much career- oriented part- time employment, and

internships are hard to come by. (OSU operates on a quarter system.) Students in

almost all majors, however, can participate in the cooperative education program,

which allows them to alternate terms of study with several months of work in a

relevant job. About a quarter of undergraduates get involved in research. The 6 per-

cent who choose a semester abroad may select from 200 study abroad programs or

research and internship opportunities in 70 countries around the world.

“The best way to describe students at Oregon State? Two words: ‘Go Beavs!’” cheers

a senior. Indeed, school spirit runs high on this friendly campus, where most students

are “well- rounded and chill but diligent,” says a biohealth sciences major. Fifty- seven

percent of undergraduates are from Oregon, and 4 percent hail from foreign countries.

Just 2 percent are Black, 12 percent are Hispanic/Latino, 9 percent are Asian American,

and 7 percent are multiracial. The Office of Diversity and Cultural Engagement spon-

sors several cultural resource centers, conferences, social justice retreats, and other

diversity initiatives to support students from

underrepresented backgrounds. Students report

that the campus is split fairly evenly between liber-

als and conservatives. Merit scholarships averaging $6,800 are awarded annually, as are

nearly 350 athletic awards in 17 sports. The Bridge to Success program allows roughly

3,000 in- state students per year to attend the university tuition- free.

Freshmen are expected to live in college housing, though fraternity pledges have

the option of living in their houses. Co- ed and single- sex options are available in the

dorms, which house 18 percent of the students. “I loved living in my hall because

it is where I made many friends; however, I much prefer living off campus because it

is not as expensive,” a student says. In addition to standard rooming situations,

several living/learning communities in areas like engineering, outdoor adventure,

(continued)

Financial Aid: 63%

Pell Grant: 21%

Expense: Pub $ $ $

Student Loans: 50%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 25,651

Accepted: 83%

Enrolled: 19%

Grad in 6 Years: 70%

Returning Freshmen: 87%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (541) 737- 4411

Email Address: osuadmit @

oregonstate .edu

Strong Programs:

Business

Engineering

Forestry

Natural Resources

Marine Biology

Oceanography

Climate Science

Agricultural Sciences

“[Students are] well-

rounded and chill but

diligent.”

A favorite campus

tradition is the

All- University Sing

(featuring musical

numbers staged

by fraternity and

sorority members).

“People in the valley don’t

tan, they rust.”

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538 UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and the environment are also options. “Dining on campus is great, and so are the

eateries just off campus: reasonably priced, with different styles and cuisines,” says a

mechanical engineering major. Campus security gets good reviews too.

Eight percent of both men and women join fraternities and sororities, and Greek

events offer a social scene but don’t dominate campus life. Administrative efforts to

make Greek parties safer include a ban on hard alcohol, a training program for stu-

dents who wish to serve as sober party monitors, and a medical amnesty policy.

Favorite campus traditions include the All- University Sing (featuring musical num-

bers staged by fraternity and sorority members) and the Dam Jam music festival in

the spring. As for Corvallis (population 60,000), a senior says, “Corvallis is a little

dry when it comes to outings, but OSU’s clubs and activities make up for that.” A

popular student activity is complaining about the Willamette Valley weather:

“People in the valley don’t tan, they rust,” warns one native. One reward for all the

rain, however, is the abundance of flowers that bloom in all colors and shapes each

May. Beautifully rugged beaches are less than an hour away, and some of the best

skiing in the country can be found in the Cascade Mountains, two hours east. Hiking

and rafting are nearby too, and camping on the coast provides more good times.

Cheering for Beavers athletic teams claims a lot of students’ time and energy here,

as does participation in 40 intramural leagues and 40 club sports. Benny Beaver, the

school’s former (and somewhat benign) mascot, has been replaced by a more aggres-

sive beaver that students have dubbed the “angry beaver.” Baseball, men’s soccer,

and men’s and women’s basketball are highly competitive in the Pac- 12 Conference

and on the national stage. Oregon State’s rivalry with the University of Oregon dates

back to 1894, and one student says, “Games between OSU and U of Oregon are a big

part of every season.”

While still a leader in agricultural education, OSU has expanded its reputation

as a university that prepares students for successful futures in ever- evolving scien-

tific, technical, and business fields. OSU doesn’t scream for attention. Instead, it’s

content to be a “nice” college, in “a safe and pleasant little town,” where professors

are “helpful” and, even if everyone doesn’t know your name, they’ll let you stand

under their umbrella whenever the skies open up.

The business school

offers some of the

finest business- related

programs in the state.

Overlaps

Colorado State,

Washington State,

University of

Nebraska– Lincoln,

Oklahoma State,

Iowa State,

University of

Oregon, University

of Washington,

Cal Poly– San Luis

Obispo

If You Apply To ›

Oregon State: Early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Applicants have the option of identifying their gender, preferred name, and sexual orientation.

University of the Pacific

3601 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95211

The university’s name dates from a time when there were no other universities near

the Pacific. Still the only small, independent university in California north of L.A., it

offers an eye- popping array of programs for an institution its size, including business,

engineering, pharmacy, and education. The student body is just as diverse.

University of the Pacific was established in 1851 by Methodist ministers as

California’s first institution of higher education. Perhaps that’s why it looks like 175

acres of New England plunked down in California wine country. With its stately

combination of red brick and ivy, it could be mistaken for an East Coast liberal arts

Website: www .pacific .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

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UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC 539

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

college. But instead of a blanket of snow, Pacific is surrounded by the lush green-

ery of the San Joaquin Valley. On campus, this increasingly competitive bastion of

learning offers its 3,200 undergrads a solid and diverse academic program and scores

of things to do when not hitting the books.

With majestic evergreens and flowering trees complementing collegiate Gothic

buildings, Pacific’s Stockton campus is home to six undergraduate schools, includ-

ing the College of the Pacific, the university’s lib-

eral arts and sciences division. There is also a

school of law in Sacramento, a superlative school

of dentistry in San Francisco, a pharmacy school

in Stockton, and the School of Health Sciences in

Sacramento. A biological sciences building provides 56,000 square feet of space for

the biological sciences department. Newer facilities include Calaveras Hall, an

apartment- style residence hall for sophomores.

The university- wide general education program has four components: core semi-

nars, a breadth program, a diversity and inclusion requirement, and fundamental skills.

All students entering in their first year must complete two core seminars: problem-

solving and oral communication and writing and critical thinking. In addition, stu-

dents must complete six to nine courses in the breadth program and must demonstrate

competence in writing, math, and reading. Strong offerings abound in the schools

of engineering and business (with specialty concentrations in arts and entertainment

management, business law, and entrepreneurship). The sciences, education, English,

and international relations are also strong. A freshman says, “The best academic

departments tend to be prepharmacy, predentistry, and the health, exercise, and sport

science programs, because they do an astounding job of preparing students for their

future professions.” Students may also design their own majors with faculty approval.

Students report that the academic atmosphere is relaxed. “Instead of students

who do whatever it takes to be at the head of the class, everyone works together,”

says an international relations major. Forty- four percent of the undergraduate classes

have fewer than 20 students, and teaching assistants teach labs only. “The faculty

members are very accessible and always willing to help,” says one sophomore. The

university guarantees graduation in four years (assuming the student follows all uni-

versity guidelines), or it will pay for the extra schooling. Students are also guaran-

teed to have the opportunity for some type of experiential learning, and a number

of internship and co- op programs are available. An extensive study abroad program

offers 200 choices in dozens of countries; international relations and global studies

majors are required to spend at least one semester abroad.

Pacific students are “genuinely nice and friendly,” says one freshman. Ninety-

one percent of undergraduates are California residents, and 8 percent hail from

foreign countries. As for ethnic diversity, Asian Americans account for 36 percent,

Black students 4 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 26 percent, and multiracial students

5 percent. The school is middle- of- the- road to conservative, though politics in gen-

eral play a small role on campus. “We’re very open to all political, religious, sexual

orientations, etc.,” says a senior. Though not unusually expensive by national stan-

dards, the university price tag can seem steep when compared to the University of

California system. So Pacific has stepped up efforts to compete, using merit schol-

arships, which average $22,600 annually, as well as athletic scholarships in several

sports. Thirty- seven percent of freshmen qualify for Pell Grants.

Freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus, and 51 percent of all

undergrads make their home on campus. “Housing is generally pretty clean and the

sense of community is felt all across the halls,” says one student. With three meal

plans, two dining halls, and one fast- food- type facility, residents are well fed. A

senior reports, “Campus security is pretty effective.”

(continued)

Total Enrollment: 5,489

Undergraduates: 3,174

Male/Female: 46/54

Financial Aid: 73%

Pell Grant: 37%

Expense: Pr $ $

Student Loans: 55%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 5,891

Accepted: 93%

Enrolled: 15%

Grad in 6 Years: 70%

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (209) 946- 2211

Email Address: admission @

pacific .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Business

Education

English

International Relations

Prepharmacy

Health, Exercise, and Sport

Science

“Instead of students who

do whatever it takes to be

at the head of the class,

everyone works together.”

Pacific dropped

football long ago,

but the Tigers

field a number of

other competitive

Division I teams.

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“The social life happens on campus, whether it is at sporting events, going to

events for different fraternities, sororities, or clubs, or simply playing games out on the

university center lawn,” says a student. Just 4 percent of the men and 5 percent of the

women go Greek, and the majority of Greek houses are designated substance- free. “I

only recently attended my first party where there was alcohol,” one student says.

“There was no pressure for me to drink.” Students caught violating the alcohol policy

must take an online course in alcohol education. Other social opportunities are offered

by the Residence Hall Association, intramural and club sports, conservatory and

drama/dance programs, campus movies, and more than 170 student clubs. Annual

campus festivities include the Lip Sync competi-

tion during homecoming, the popular Fall

Festival, Diversity Week, and International Spring

Festival. For weekend excitement, Pacific students

love to hit the road: within about two hours, they can be skiing, shopping in San

Francisco, or surfing in Monterey. Stockton itself (population 322,000) offers shop-

ping and plenty of fast- food joints, as well as numerous volunteer opportunities.

Pacific dropped football long ago, but the Tigers field a number of other

competitive Division I teams. The women’s volleyball team makes regular NCAA

Tournament appearances, and men’s and women’s basketball and water polo are

also strong. The university also sponsors a solid speech and debate team.

Pitted against the state’s immense public university system, Pacific stands out

for offering major university opportunities in a small- college setting. The adminis-

tration is striving to place more focus on its student body, which is becoming more

top- notch and diverse. A political science major says, “When you come here, you

instantly feel like you are surrounded by very friendly and loving people.”

The university

guarantees graduation

in four years, or

it will pay for the

extra schooling.

“We’re very open to all

political, religious, sexual

orientations, etc.”

Overlaps

UC Davis, UC

Berkeley, UCLA,

Caltech, UC San

Diego, UC Santa

Barbara, University

of Southern

California

If You Apply To ›

Pacific: Early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application.

University of Pennsylvania

1 College Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104

An Ivy League institution in name, Penn has more in common with places like

Georgetown and Northwestern— where the liberal arts share center stage with

preprofessional programs. At Penn, that means business, engineering, and nursing.

Penn has something else other Ivies don’t: school spirit. It’s a good idea to apply

early decision if Penn is your first choice.

Benjamin Franklin would be proud of the way the university he helped create has

surged in recent years. Once relegated to the bottom rungs of the Ivy League (and

often confused with Penn State), the University of Pennsylvania is now the first

choice for top students who see no conflict between high- level academics and

having a life. The undergraduate College of Arts and Sciences— once on the univer-

sity’s back burner— is now central not only to its undergraduates, but also to three

other undergraduate schools that tap into its programs and course offerings. With

a distinguished history that dates to 1740, Penn established the nation’s first med-

ical school, the first business school, the first journalism curriculum, and the first

psychology clinic, and it is a pioneer in service learning and service research. In

Website: www .upenn .edu

Location: City Center

Private

Total Enrollment: 21,943

Undergraduates: 9,717

Male/Female: 46/54

Financial Aid: 43%

Pell Grant: 19%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

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UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA 541

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her inaugural address, a former president paid tribute to Franklin as “the ultimate

visionary and pragmatist. Franklin thought education should be for the body as

well as for the soul— that it should enable a graduate to be a breadwinner as well

as a thinker, that it should produce socially conscious citizens as well as conscien-

tious bankers and traders.”

“Penn” is the university’s traditional informal name. In recent years “UPenn”

has also emerged as a nickname; although this alternative is used more by outsiders

than by students themselves, it is gaining currency. Penn’s campus is situated in a

tree- shaded, self- contained, 299- acre nest called

University City, which is adjacent to downtown

Philadelphia. Its 218 buildings range from

Victorian Gothic to postmodern. There are very

old structures, such as College Hall, and newer ones, such as Wharton’s Huntsman Hall

and Skirkanich Hall, home to Penn’s bioengineering programs. New College House

West, a $163 million, 450- bed undergraduate residential house, opened in 2021.

Penn’s reputation has traditionally been wrapped up with its 12 graduate schools,

especially the prestigious Wharton School of Business; the Annenberg School of

Communication; and the well- known law, medical, and veterinary schools. (Penn

claims to be the first university in the country to offer both undergraduate and grad-

uate studies.) Three of the four undergraduate schools— engineering, nursing, and

the undergraduate division of Wharton— are also professionally oriented and offer

an education that’s hard to beat anywhere. The undergraduate College of Arts and

Sciences (a.k.a. “The College”) has come into its own in recent years and provides

students with high- quality instruction as well as the chance to run into a Nobel

laureate here and there.

Finance is among the most popular undergrad majors, followed by econom-

ics and nursing. Penn’s anthropology department ranks with Chicago’s as tops in

the country, while the management and technology program is also outstanding.

Penn has earned applause in the field of cognitive and computer sciences because

of its special program linking psychology, linguistics, and computers with phi-

losophy. Another popular créme- de- la- créme interdisciplinary major, biological

basis of behavior, combines psychology, biology, and anthropology. Students are

allowed to design their own individualized majors, and they can hop from school to

school— undergraduate or graduate— in doing so. Students in the Vagelos Program

in Life Science and Management pursue studies in both the College of Arts and

Sciences and the Wharton School, exposing them to research and development,

biotech start- ups, managed care, and other related issues.

At the Wharton School (named after the 19th- century industrialist who founded

it), the Joseph Wharton Scholars program emphasizes breadth in the arts and sci-

ences. Another added plus that comes with a Penn undergraduate education is the

opportunity for early entry (submatriculation)

into the university’s graduate programs. Juniors

may apply to any master’s program (continuing

into the Wharton M.B.A. program is especially

popular) and begin completing graduate require-

ments during their senior year. Penn offers no co- op programs and discourages full-

time internships for credit, remaining true to the Ivy League belief that learning

should be based in academic settings. Thirty percent of students explore more exotic

classrooms by studying abroad at Penn’s programs in Italy, Scotland, Japan, China,

and Nigeria, among others. Freshmen are encouraged but not required to participate

in a seminar program that explores various areas of academic interest, and also in

the Penn Reading Project, which involves student and faculty discussion of a

common text.

(continued)

Student Loans: 18%

Average Debt: $ $

Applicants: 54,588

Accepted: 7%

Enrolled: 68%

Grad in 6 Years: 96%

Returning Freshmen: 98%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (215) 898- 7507

Email Address: info @

admissions .upenn .edu

Strong Programs:

Business

Engineering

Nursing

Communication

Anthropology

Management and Technology

Cognitive Science

Biological Basis of Behavior

“Most departments have

fantastic professors who

are tops in their field.”

On Hey Day, juniors

don Styrofoam hats

and march down

Locust Walk to

become seniors, taking

chomps out of each

other’s hats as they go.

“Penn students have

historically been extremely

involved with the local

community.”

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542 UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

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Two- thirds of undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students, and while

professors at Penn take their research responsibilities seriously, they are surprisingly

accessible to freshmen. “Most departments have fantastic professors who are tops

in their field,” says one student, “and have developed a great teaching style.” The

academic program at Penn is well supplemented by its huge and busy library, which

houses more than six million volumes.

Despite all the preprofessional programs, Penn never lets its undergraduates

stray too far from the liberal arts. The general education requirements in the College

of Arts and Sciences mandate that students take at least one course in each of seven

“sectors”: society; history and tradition; arts and

letters; living world; physical world; humanities

and social sciences; and natural sciences and

mathematics. Students must also complete one

course in each of six “foundational approaches” areas, including writing, foreign

language, quantitative data analysis, formal reasoning and analysis, cross- cultural

analysis, and cultural diversity in the U.S. Strict academic policies and demanding

professors exacerbate the academic pressure. “Penn is a competitive university,” says

one nursing major, “but is also intellectually stimulating.”

Thousands of faculty and students give expression to Benjamin Franklin’s adage

that service to humanity is “the great aim and end of all learning.” To wit, Penn is a

national leader in service learning and service research. Students work with local

public school students as part of academic coursework in disciplines as diverse as

history, anthropology, and mathematics. There are tons of opportunities to

volunteer— from tutoring to Big Brothers Big Sisters to the Ronald McDonald House.

“Penn students have historically been extremely involved with the local community

and have taken the experiences they’ve had in the neighborhood with them to the

real world,” an economics and history double major says.

Nineteen percent of Penn undergraduates are Pennsylvania natives, and 13 per-

cent are international. “There are all kinds of people with all kinds of personalities,

interests, and backgrounds,” says a student, “all of which makes Penn a vibrant place

to live and study.” Eight percent of undergrads are

Black, 10 percent are Hispanic/Latino, 28 percent

are Asian American, and 5 percent are multiracial.

Penn admits students regardless of need— and meets full demonstrated need with

loan- free financial aid packages— but does not offer any merit or athletic scholarships.

Outreach programs target hundreds of schools and thousands of students from low-

and middle- income families in an effort to improve socioeconomic diversity.

Sixty percent of all undergraduates live on campus and enjoy a wide range of

living options in Penn’s 13 co- ed “College Houses.” The Quad, home to three of the

13 houses, seems to be the hot spot, described as “well maintained and incredibly

comfortable.” Most College Houses offer living/learning programs for those who

want to be surrounded by others with the same interests. Some upperclassmen move

to the apartment- style accommodations in three high- rises across campus, but most

head to nearby off- campus houses and apartments— “for the freedom, plus it’s a lot

cheaper,” a junior says. Meal plans are required for freshmen, and the food isn’t all

that bad for institutional fare. “The best kept secret on campus is the kosher cafete-

ria,” a finance and management major says.

Undergraduates may work hard during the week, but in contrast to typical Ivy

League achievers, they leave it behind them on weekends. “Social life at Penn cen-

ters around frats,” a junior explains. “Parties freely serve alcohol to underage drink-

ers,” according to another student, despite school policies dictating otherwise. More

than two dozen fraternities attract 20 percent of the men, while sororities claim

21 percent of the women. The frats’ exclusive claim to the houses along Locust

“Penn is a competitive

university but is also

intellectually stimulating.”

Penn’s campus

is situated in a

tree- shaded, self-

contained, 299-

acre nest called

University City.

“Social life at Penn centers

around frats.”

Juniors may apply

to any master’s

program and begin

completing graduate

requirements during

their senior year.

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PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY 543

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Walk, the main artery on campus, has been undone: after some controversy, it was

determined that non- Greeks, too, must be able to live at the social nexus of the

campus. Two big annual events at Penn are Spring Fling, a weekend “nothing short

of absolutely incredible fun,” and Hey Day, a century- old tradition where juniors,

donning Styrofoam hats and thin wooden canes, march down Locust Walk to offi-

cially become seniors, taking chomps out of each other’s hats as they go.

Downtown Philadelphia is only a few minutes away by foot, Lyft, or public

transportation. Penn is located in the western part of town, once considered to be

dangerous, but nowadays, as a senior explains, “There are a wealth of cultural

resources at the tip of your fingers, and more and more students are able to find jobs

in the Philadelphia area after graduation.” Students frequent sporting events, malls,

South Street (“a miniature Greenwich Village”), and, of course, myriad bars and

clubs. The city is home to several other colleges, and a student says, “There is a lot

of social intermingling among the schools, and university students dominate the

nightlife.” Road trips include New York City, Washington, D.C., Atlantic City, and

even Maine and Florida.

Penn is more sports- minded than most Ivies, and football (they’re in the Division I

Football Championship Subdivision) is the biggie. The team is accustomed to sitting

on the top of the Ivy League and is at the nexus of widespread school spirit. Tickets are

free for those with a student ID. The Penn– Princeton rivalry is always a crowd- pleaser.

At the end of the third quarter of each home game, everyone in the stands begins

belting out the lyrics of the Penn fight song, and when they get to “Here’s a toast to

dear old Penn,” the students shower the field with burnt toast, “a moment that makes

all Penn students proud,” according to a senior. Other solid Quakers teams include

men’s and women’s basketball, men’s lacrosse, and women’s field hockey and fenc-

ing. A bevy of intramurals and nearly 40 club sports bring thousands of less- seasoned

athletes out to play each year, and all types of athletes benefit from the swanky track

and weight- lifting facilities. Each spring, Penn hosts the prestigious Penn Relays, a

track- and- field extravaganza that attracts the nation’s best track athletes.

While its students work hard, Penn lacks the intellectual intensity of some of the

other top Ivies, and you can detect preprofessional undercurrents. But most accept it

for what it is: a first- rate university where you can live a relatively normal life in the

heart of Philadelphia. Penn is one Ivy League university where no one apologizes for

having fun. Says one sophomore, “There is a great balance between academics and

social activities, which is rare in such highly competitive institutions.”

Penn is a national

leader in service

learning and

service research.

Overlaps

Georgetown,

Northwestern,

Brown, Columbia,

Cornell University,

Harvard, Stanford,

Yale

If You Apply To ›

Penn: Early decision, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult Penn’s website

for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Pennsylvania State University

201 Old Main, University Park, PA 16802

With a student body the size of a small city, Penn State is strong in fields from

meteorology and business to film and television. The 1,800- student Schreyer Honors

College is one of the nation’s elite programs. Although its athletic programs have

tended to grab most of the headlines (not always positive), Penn State remains one

of the premier public universities academically.

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Living it up with over 40,000 fellow full- time undergraduates in what sportswrit-

ers have long dubbed Happy Valley is probably not for the faint of heart. But

those who can muster the energy to take advantage of Penn State’s legendary

school spirit and to navigate its vast sea of academic options will be rewarded

with stellar programs in engineering, the sciences, and other fields appropriate to

a land grant university.

With an eclectic architectural mix, including white- columned brick, stone, and

some modern apartments, Penn State, which was founded in 1855, continues to

experience growth as major renovation and expansion projects proceed. New facil-

ities and renovations are constantly underway. The $144 million Chemical and

Biomedical Engineering Building is among the newer additions to campus. “Penn

State just keeps growing and improving itself,” says one student.

Penn State’s general education requirements consist of 45 credits that include

several communications and quantification courses as well as humanities, arts, nat-

ural sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and health and physical education

courses. The incorporation of critical- thinking

skills has been a priority in redesigning the gen-

eral curriculum. In addition, undergrads must

enroll in courses on U.S. and international diver-

sity. One helpful program offered to freshmen is LEAP (Learning Edge Academic

Program), which gives new students the benefit of a big university while making it

seem small. Students in LEAP take a team approach by taking classes and living

together. About 1,800 of the university’s best and brightest are invited to participate

in the Schreyer Honors College, which offers opportunities for research and an

honors thesis, as well as honors options in regular courses.

The most popular majors at Penn State fall under the categories of engineer-

ing, business, computer and information sciences, and social sciences. The univer-

sity maintains strong programs in the scientific and technical fields such as earth

sciences, engineering, forensic science, and life sciences, as well as nutrition and

family studies. The meteorology program boasts alumni worldwide, including the

founder of AccuWeather, an internationally renowned private forecasting firm. The

College of Information Sciences and Technology is designed to prepare students

for the digital age. The College of Agricultural Sciences has extensive facilities that

include huge livestock barns. Its food sciences program is one of the best in the

nation. Dairy products from the school’s cows are sold at an on- campus store, and

courses are offered in the production of its famous ice cream. Students can choose

from more than 160 undergraduate majors and more than 190 graduate fields spread

over 24 locations statewide, including the College of Medicine and Dickinson Law,

both located near Harrisburg, and Penn State Law on the University Park campus.

Combined undergraduate/graduate degree options are available, as are engineering

co- op programs, distance learning, and student- designed majors.

“The one thing about Penn State is that your academic experience is com-

pletely what you make it,” counsels one student. Some of the intro- level lecture

courses draw up to 400 students at University Park, yet most students seem to

agree that classes are excellent and require your full attention. Students report that

professors are accessible and engaging— when they are teaching; grad students fre-

quently take on that responsibility. For cramming outside of class, the Penn State

library system contains 8.6 million volumes. Roughly 16 percent of students study

abroad through nearly 300 summer, semester, and full- year programs offered in

roughly 50 countries.

“Penn State students are active, fun, and open- minded,” says one student. Fifty-

nine percent of undergraduates are residents of Pennsylvania, with 11 percent hail-

ing from foreign nations. More than half of Penn State’s undergrads who finish at

Website: www .psu .edu

Location: Small City

Public

Total Enrollment: 46,992

Undergraduates: 40,475

Male/Female: 53/47

Financial Aid: 42%

Pell Grant: 22%

Expense: Pub $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 53%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 85,784

Accepted: 55%

Enrolled: 19%

Grad in 6 Years: 85%

Returning Freshmen: 91%

Academics:

- - - -

Social:

% % % % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (814) 865- 5471

Email Address: admissions @

psu .edu

Strong Programs:

Meteorology

Business

Film and Television

Engineering

Forensic Science

Nutrition and Family Studies

Computer and Information

Sciences

Food Sciences

“Your academic experience

is completely what you

make it.”

The Learning Edge

Academic Program

gives new students

the benefit of a

big university while

making it seem small.

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PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY 545

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University Park began their education at one of the university’s 19 undergraduate

campuses across the state. Many students note that race and diversity issues can be

pronounced on a campus that is still pretty homogeneous for a public university:

Asian Americans make up 7 percent of the undergrad population, Black students

4 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 8 percent, and multiracial students 4 percent. A whop-

ping 695 athletic scholarships are available in 29 varsity sports, as are thousands of

merit awards, averaging $5,400.

Freshmen must live in the dorms, which students say are comfortable and

located near classroom buildings and dining facilities. Overall, 34 percent of stu-

dents live on campus; the rest find a home off campus, often in downtown apart-

ments. “I loved living in the dorms,” reports

one public relations major. “I think it’s part of

the whole college experience, and I made some

great friends along the way.” The meal plan operates on a point system where you

pay for what you eat. Stand for State is a comprehensive bystander intervention

program covering sexual assault, drug and alcohol use, acts of bias, and mental

health concerns.

“Social life at Penn State is huge,” says a freshman. Seventeen percent of men

and 20 percent of women go Greek. Partying at Penn State mostly happens at frater-

nities, but the administration has been focusing on measures to increase student

safety and reduce dangerous drinking, hazing, and sexual assault, including impos-

ing new rules for social events sponsored by Greek organizations. Greek Chapter

Scorecards track conduct violations and disciplinary actions, as well as academic

performance, community service hours, and philanthropic fund- raising efforts, for

every Greek chapter on campus. For social alternatives, the HUB (the campus union

building) offers nonalcoholic entertainment, and more than 1,000 student organi-

zations keep students busy too. Favorite annual events include the mid- July arts

festival, the Dance Marathon, and, of course, homecoming.

University Park students take advantage of the picturesque and peaceful locale

by engaging in outdoorsy activities, including skiing and snowboarding at a nearby

slope, and sailing, canoeing, hiking, and renting

cabins in Stone Valley. State College offers

restaurants, bars, and cultural events such as

symphonies, theatrical shows, and ballets, while

the Bryce Jordan Center hosts top- notch performers. The town may be small, but

according to a biochem major, “a majority of the students get involved in commu-

nity service to maintain and constantly improve town relations.”

Penn State was once viewed as the model of how the values of big- time football

and academic excellence could coexist, but this image took a major hit a decade ago

with the conviction of a former assistant football coach as a sexual predator. Since

then, new leadership, governance, and other changes have sought to put the scan-

dal in the rearview mirror. When thousands of alumni converge to cheer on their

Nittany Lions (named after a type of local mountain lion) in blue and white, the

festivities include tailgating replete with pregame parties and postgame revelry. As a

member of the Big Ten, Penn State’s foes include Michigan and Ohio State, both of

which make great road trips. Nittany Lions teams have won 80 national team cham-

pionships in a wide variety of sports; the men’s wrestling team has brought home 10

national titles in the last three years. Men’s lacrosse and men’s and women’s soccer

are recent conference champions. There are three large gyms, a competitive- size

pool, an indoor ice rink, and an extensive program of intramural and club sports for

the recreational athlete, including a large angler’s club.

After a period of agonizing soul- searching about what led to its football scandal

a decade ago and more recent Greek life troubles, Penn State’s sense of pride and

“Social life at Penn State is

huge.”

Dairy products from

the school’s cows

are sold at an on-

campus store.

“Penn State students are

active, fun, and open-

minded.”

Overlaps

University of

Pittsburgh,

Temple, University

of Maryland,

University of

Delaware, Rutgers,

Indiana University

of Pennsylvania,

Ohio State

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546 PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY

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community spirit have reasserted themselves. As one proud Lion explains, “Imagine

a family of 40,000— the excitement, compassion, and sense of belonging.”

If You Apply To ›

PSU: Early action, rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Apply to particular school or pro-

gram. Please consult Penn State’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Pepperdine University

24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90263

With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Pepperdine boasts what is arguably the most

beautiful campus setting in American higher education. Proximity to L.A., only 35 miles

away, contributes to its growing popularity. Pepperdine describes itself as a “Christian

university,” and students come ready to embrace its conservative Christian emphasis.

Given its picturesque surroundings, it’s easy to confuse Pepperdine University with

a Southern Californian resort. Surrounded by the beautiful seashore, Pepperdine

University might seem like paradise for students seeking sunshine rather than stud-

ies at this conservative Christian university, though students take their work and

their worship seriously. “The philosophy of the school is that God and the academic

experience must be married,” says a senior communication major. “This creates

an intimate learning environment that prides itself on moral integrity and a high

academic standard.” Business and communication are the most blessed programs,

though other departments deserve recognition too. Undergrads praise their educa-

tional opportunities, the strength of their school’s spiritual community, and the

vast sandy beaches beckoning below their hilltop campus.

There’s no denying that Pepperdine’s location, nestled in the Santa Monica

Mountains about 35 miles northwest of Los Angeles, is a strong selling point. The 830-

acre Malibu campus, to which the school moved

from L.A. in 1972, overlooks the Pacific Ocean

and features fountains, hillside gardens, moun-

tain trails, and a 20- minute walk to the beach.

Spanish revival architecture— cream- colored

stucco buildings topped with red ceramic tile

roofs— dots the landscape. The Phillips Theme Tower, a 125- foot- tall white stucco

cross, stands 345 feet above sea level on the outskirts of campus, reminding students

and faculty of the school’s Christian heritage.

Pepperdine was founded in 1937 by George Pepperdine, a lifelong member of the

conservative Churches of Christ who established a hugely successful retail auto parts

company and became concerned that too many young people were losing their religious

faith when they entered college. The church’s continued influence on the school per-

vades many aspects of campus life, from the prohibition of overnight dorm room visits

by members of the opposite sex to the requirement that students attend Seaver 200—

“faith exploration gatherings” similar to chapel— 10 times each semester. Drinking is

officially prohibited on campus too. Though restrictions like this might drive the average

American kid up a wall, most Pepperdine students like what one calls the “highly moral”

atmosphere. “In comparison to other schools, Pepperdine students generally have a more

religious foundation and thus have high standards of moral integrity,” opines a student.

Website: www .pepperdine

.edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 5,971

Undergraduates: 3,449

Male/Female: 42/58

Financial Aid: 92%

Pell Grant: 20%

Expense: Pr $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 47%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 11,466

Accepted: 49%

Enrolled: 17%

Grad in 6 Years: 84%

Returning Freshmen: 88%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (310) 506- 4392

Email Address: admission

-seaver @ pepperdine .edu

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Communication

Public Relations

Psychology

Marketing

Economics

Biology

Sports Medicine

“[Pepperdine has]

an intimate learning

environment that prides

itself on moral integrity and

a high academic standard.”

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The academic programs of Seaver College, Pepp’s undergraduate school, aim to

provide students a “traditional liberal arts curriculum based on a Christian world-

view.” Individual classes are demanding, as is the required General Education pro-

gram, which includes a first- year seminar and

courses in English composition, speech and

rhetoric, math, a foreign language, Western cul-

ture, world civilizations, laboratory science, fine

arts, literature, and human institutions and

behavior. Students must also take three religion courses. Faculty members are said

to be accessible and responsive— not surprising when 74 percent of classes have

fewer than 20 students. One student says professors “demand a lot from their stu-

dents and expect a high standard and quality of work.”

The business administration department is unequivocally the strongest and most

popular at Pepperdine, and it tends to set the tone on campus. Those seeking advanced

business education can enroll in a B.S./M.B.A. program that allows them to earn a

bachelor’s degree in business administration from Seaver College and an M.B.A. from

the university’s graduate business school in five years. The communication depart-

ment, with majors including advertising, public relations, and journalism, is also

highly touted and boasts radio and television broadcasting studios. Psychology, mar-

keting, economics, biology, and sports medicine are also popular. Dual- degree engi-

neering programs are available in partnership with the University of Southern

California and Washington University in St. Louis. The well- organized Career Center

allows students to sign up for job fairs, interviews, and individual and group career-

counseling sessions. Sophomores interested in international culture may spend a year

at Pepperdine’s own facilities in Buenos Aires, Florence, Heidelberg, Lausanne, or

London. Locations for summer study have included East Africa, the Galapagos Islands,

Madrid, and Oxford. Roughly 80 percent of Pepperdine’s undergraduates participate

in short- and long- term study abroad programs.

One might expect students at this religiously oriented school to be politically conser-

vative, and a good portion are. Many come from well- to- do California Republican fami-

lies; there are also quite a few wealthy international students. Students joke that there’s

never a shortage of Porsches and BMWs on campus,

but there is a shortage of places to park them. “I

think students who are struggling financially would

have a difficult time fitting in,” confesses an adver-

tising major. Overall, 48 percent of undergraduates

are California natives, and 10 percent come from abroad. Hispanics/Latinos account for

18 percent of the students, Asian Americans 14 percent, Black students 4 percent, and

multiracial students 7 percent. The Republican influence is felt far and wide. Pepperdine

has received millions of dollars from conservative donors, including the late Pittsburgh

financier Richard Mellon Scaife. Nevertheless, one student says, “Pepperdine tends to shy

away from political activism.” The university awards merit scholarships averaging

$17,145 to top achievers, in addition to about 325 athletic scholarships in 14 sports.

Sixty- three percent of undergraduates live on campus. A senior declares that

Pepperdine’s residence halls are “comfortable, convenient, and really quite nice.”

Rooms are assigned on a first- come, first- served basis, and the housing stock consists

of 25 dorms, including the newer, suite- style Seaside Residence Hall. First- year stu-

dents are typically assigned to suites with bathrooms, living rooms, and four double

bedrooms. Some consider these arrangements crowded, but a junior says they “con-

nect freshmen instantly to seven suitemates and friends.” Despite the above- average

cost of living in the Malibu area, many upperclassmen choose to live off campus. As

for dining in the campus’s 11 venues, a senior says, “The meals are just OK.” Some

students express a desire for greater transparency regarding incidents of campus

“[Professors] demand a lot

from their students and

expect a high standard and

quality of work.”

Dual- degree

engineering programs

are available in

partnership with

the University of

Southern California

and Washington

University in St. Louis.

“Parties on weekends . . .

probably draw a larger

portion of students than

church on Sunday.”

Students typically

head to L.A.,

Hollywood,

Westwood, and Santa

Monica for fun.

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548 UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

sexual harassment and assault, reporting that the administration “has tried to hide

certain cases without sharing them with the student body.”

Some say flashy student vehicles fit into the small, very wealthy community of

Malibu better than the students themselves. Because the social scene in Malibu is

pretty slack, with a 10 p.m. noise curfew and high price tags for everything, students

typically head to L.A., Hollywood, Westwood, and Santa Monica for fun. “For a large

proportion of students, academics and their social lives take priority over religious

matters,” says a public relations major. “Parties on weekends are well attended and

probably draw a larger portion of students than church on Sunday.” Eighteen per-

cent of the men and 33 percent of the women join one of five national fraternities or

eight national sororities, which are playing a larger role in social life. Along with stu-

dent government, they sponsor dances, movies, and other typical college activities,

including the occasional illicit drink. “Pepperdine enforces a ‘dry’ campus,” says

one student. The Tyler Campus Center serves as the main social center, and annual

events including Songfest, Waves Weekend, and Midnight Madness draw crowds.

Sports receive a lot of attention at Pepperdine. The Waves compete in the

Division I West Coast Conference. Competitive teams include men’s and wom-

en’s golf, men’s volleyball, women’s tennis, and women’s swimming and diving.

Ten club and intramural sports keep students busy, as does the physical education

department, with classes in everything from surfing to ballet. A tennis pavilion and

recreation center serves varsity jocks and weekend warriors alike.

Pepperdine has taken up the challenge of trying to marry the Christian focus of

a Bible college with the academic rigor of a secular university— all in a location not

known for the strength of its moral fiber. Students love to tease their well- manicured

university with T-shirts proclaiming, “Pepperdine. 8- month party. 60K cover

charge.” But most seem to think the solid, values- oriented education they receive is

worth the stiff price tag.

Overlaps

Baylor, Loyola

Marymount, Santa

Clara, Southern

Methodist,

University of San

Diego, Chapman,

Westmont,

Wheaton (IL)

If You Apply To ›

Pepperdine: Early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Fine arts applicants must submit portfolio.

Performing arts applicants must audition. Please consult Pepperdine’s website for the most up- to- date information regard-

ing standardized test requirements.

University of Pittsburgh

4227 Fifth Avenue, Alumni Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15260

As its home city has risen in stature, Pitt has become a hot commodity along with

next- door neighbor Carnegie Mellon. A state- related university in the mold of the

University of Cincinnati— not the state flagship, but strong in a host of preprofessional

programs, especially in health fields. Curiously, Pitt is among the nation’s best

in philosophy. Admissions is rolling, so apply early.

Pittsburgh has joined the ranks of the most livable cities in the United States. The

University of Pittsburgh has matured, too, becoming a formidable public research

institution. The school offers numerous opportunities for students pursuing medi-

cal, engineering, and business careers but leaves a great deal of room for exploration

in the liberal arts. Students are encouraged to be individuals and carve out their own

academic niche, either with multiple majors or with certificate programs. “The great

Website: www .pitt .edu

Location: City Center

Public

Total Enrollment: 26,522

Undergraduates: 19,206

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UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH 549

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thing about Pitt is they are always adding and adapting programs to fit the students’

needs and interests,” says a junior.

Pitt began as a tiny, private educational academy in the Allegheny Mountains in

1787. Oh, how times have changed. The university, which became state- related in

1966, is adjacent to Carnegie Mellon and is now part of the landscape of shops,

museums, and galleries that make up Oakland,

the heart of Pittsburgh’s educational and medi-

cal center. Spacious, light- filled, contemporary

buildings and generic modern office buildings

make up the Pitt campus, but the architectural

focal point is the fabled 42- story, neo- Gothic academic building, appropriately

called the Cathedral of Learning, a national historic landmark. The stately and tow-

ering cathedral, with its unique Nationality Rooms, attracts 30,000 visitors annu-

ally. And contrary to images you may hold of inner- city Pittsburgh, the campus

adjoins a 456- acre city park. Construction on the new, 270,000- square- foot Campus

Recreation and Wellness Center is slated for completion in 2024.

Academic requirements in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences include writing,

quantitative and formal reasoning, and foreign languages, as well as coursework in the

humanities, social and natural sciences, and foreign cultures. First- year students undergo

an extensive orientation before the fall term starts, take a one- credit freshman studies

seminar, and complete a course on anti- racism. Pitt offers guaranteed admission into a

wide variety of graduate programs for outstanding freshman applicants. The Outside

the Classroom Curriculum is an optional cocurricular program in which students partic-

ipate in activities in 10 goal areas, such as leadership development, sense of self, service

to others, and arts appreciation, in order to round out their college experience.

With 16 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools and more than

100 undergraduate majors across its five- campus system, Pitt rightfully claims to

accommodate students with diverse needs. The engineering and nursing schools

are excellent and attract high- caliber students. Premed students can watch trans-

plants at the famed University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, one of the world’s

leading organ transplant centers. The rehabilitation science major prepares students

for Pitt’s highly competitive physical therapy program, which is tops in the country;

bioengineering is also a strength. The most popular majors include research and

experimental psychology, registered nursing, biological sciences, and finance. The

interdisciplinary politics and philosophy major is a unique offering.

Coursework at Pitt is described as intensive but manageable; a chemistry major

says, “With the rigorous material and courseload comes a lot of support from faculty

and staff, so it all ends up balancing out.” Forty- two percent of classes have fewer

than 20 students, and a senior says the atmosphere is “incredibly collaborative.” Pitt

faculty members are often at the top of their fields, leading the way in areas like

astronomical discoveries and medical advances.

The academically motivated can pursue a distinctive, research- focused bachelor

of philosophy degree from the excellent University Honors College. Pitt is one of the

top 10 institutions in the nation in terms of annual research support awarded by the

National Institutes of Health. Forty- six percent of

undergrads pursue research projects, facilitated

by the university’s 400 centers, institutes, labora-

tories, and clinics. For those who want to travel,

the university boasts study abroad options in 65

countries; 27 percent of undergrads participate. Closer to home, Pitt is a partner

with Carnegie Mellon University in the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center. Students

praise the Career Center’s internship prep program, which places students in local

internships after they’ve completed a set of workshops and other requirements.

(continued)

Male/Female: 42/58

Financial Aid: 47%

Pell Grant: 17%

Expense: Pub $ $ $ $

Student Loans: 59%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 53,072

Accepted: 49%

Enrolled: 23%

Grad in 6 Years: 84%

Returning Freshmen: 93%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (412) 624- 7488

Email Address: pitt

.admissions @ pitt .edu

Strong Programs:

Engineering

Nursing

Rehabilitation Science

Bioengineering

Philosophy

Business

Biological Sciences

Psychology

“Pitt is . . . always adding

and adapting programs to

fit the students’ needs and

interests.”

Favorite annual events

include Bigelow Bash,

a spring concert that

brings recognizable

performers to campus.

“The administration

has shown that they’re

receptive and responsive to

student concerns.”

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550 UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Sixty- one percent of undergraduates are from Pennsylvania, including a sub-

stantial number from the Pittsburgh area, and 5 percent hail from 57 other coun-

tries. Black students account for 5 percent of the student body, Asian Americans

14 percent, Hispanics/Latinos 7 percent, and

multiracial students 5 percent. “From the Black

Action Society to the Rainbow Alliance, there is

an organization or group for students of any

identity and background at Pitt,” says a junior. When it comes to political and social

issues, students say the campus is “very vocal” but also respectful. Pitt offers merit

awards averaging $10,300 to incoming freshmen, and more than 250 athletic schol-

arships are available in 19 varsity sports. Pell Grant recipients benefit from the Pitt

Success Pell Match Program, which matches the federal grant dollar for dollar.

While student housing may have been scarce in the past, Pitt continues to

increase the amount of on- campus living space and guarantees housing for three

years. Forty- two percent of students live on campus in 30 co- ed and single- sex dorms

with all kinds of rooming situations, from singles to seven- person, apartment- style

suites. Students say the quality varies and some options are overpriced. Living/

learning communities are popular, with 17 options for first- years and nine for upper-

classmen. Hungry students may choose from two all- you- care- to- eat dining facilities,

25 on- campus retail dining locations, and several off- campus local spots; the campus

food gets average marks. Campus safety is bolstered by a consistent police presence,

and a sophomore notes, “The administration has shown that they’re receptive and

responsive to student concerns about issues like sexual assault.”

Within minutes of Pitt’s campus are shops, parks, museums, professional sport-

ing events, and performing arts venues, and PITT ARTS provides students with low-

cost tickets to attend cultural events in the city. The university also grants students

fare- free access to city buses. “Exploring the city has been one of my favorite parts of

my Pitt experience. There’s so much more to do and see outside of Oakland,” says a

senior. Another adds that, for students of age, “Bars tend to be big here.” On campus,

students have more than 600 clubs and organizations to choose from, and 11 per-

cent of the men and 14 percent of the women belong to the Greek system. “Greek

life is small on campus, so they don’t take over the scene like at other schools,” says

one senior. Favorite annual events include I Love Pitt Day, the Black and White Ball,

and Bigelow Bash, a spring concert that brings recognizable performers like T-Pain

and MisterWives to campus. Adjacent Schenley Park offers jogging trails and facili-

ties for outdoor recreation. Ski slopes and mountain trails are not far away, and road

trips to Penn State and Philadelphia, Boston, and New York City are popular.

The Pitt Panthers compete in the Division I Atlantic Coast Conference, and

men’s wrestling and women’s volleyball have taken home recent championships.

“The Pitt vs. Penn State game is always a highlight each year,” cheers a junior.

Approximately 40 percent of undergrads take part in intramurals and club sports;

basketball, flag football, soccer, and volleyball are the most popular.

Pitt is a large university made to feel small. Its flexibility in adapting to students’

needs and its commitment to community breed a kind of loyalty and pride that

students say can’t be found elsewhere. Case in point, one senior declares, “I have

two separate friends who have our unofficial slogan, ‘Hail to Pitt,’ tattooed on

them.” Now that’s commitment.

“Greek life [doesn’t] take

over the scene like at other

schools.”

First- year students

undergo an extensive

orientation before

the fall term starts.

Overlaps

Penn State, Ohio

State, University

of Michigan,

Purdue, University

of Maryland,

Northeastern,

Rutgers, Carnegie

Mellon

If You Apply To ›

Pitt: Rolling admissions. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Please consult Pitt’s website for the most

up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

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PRESBYTERIAN COLLEGE 551

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Pitzer College: See page 151.

Pomona College: See page 153.

Presbyterian College

503 S. Broad Street, Clinton, SC 29325

A South Carolina liberal arts college that competes head- to- head with Wofford

for students who want their education served up with plenty of personal attention.

Business programs complement the focus on liberal arts. Lacks the urban allure

of Furman or Oglethorpe, but Scottish heritage adds flavor. About two- thirds of PC

students are from South Carolina.

Consistent with the school’s founding by clergyman William Plumer Jacobs way

back in 1880 to educate orphans, Presbyterian College students live up to the motto

Dum Vivimus Servimus (“While we live, we serve”). Virtually all students volunteer

while at PC. Increasingly, they are also logging research hours in the lab, traveling

to far corners of the world, and trying out potential careers through internships. At

the same time, they continue to pursue personal, spiritual, and academic growth in

a liberal arts environment.

The Presbyterian campus sits on 240 acres in the South Carolina piedmont. The

redbrick buildings are largely Georgian in style, with tall, white columns and lots of

shade trees. Many structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places,

including the campus’s most recognizable building, Neville Hall. The campus resem-

bles Thomas Jefferson’s University of Virginia, with buildings grouped around three

plazas just perfect for reading, studying, or throwing a Frisbee. New apartment- style

housing for seniors was recently completed.

Presbyterian’s curriculum emphasizes the traditional liberal arts, with a range of

required courses, as well as experiential learning: all students either study abroad, con-

duct independent research, or complete an intern-

ship before graduation. The required Compass

program extends from freshman through senior

year, beginning with a First- Year Exploration

course that focuses on critical thinking, academic

skills, and personal exploration of vocation and calling. Sophomores take a course that

helps them explore potential career paths. Students must also develop an electronic

portfolio and participate in a senior capstone course.

“The coursework is intense at times but is not so intrusive that it devours all

of a student’s time,” says a political science major. An honor code holds students

accountable for their behavior and creates an atmosphere of mutual respect. Classes

are small, with 71 percent enrolling fewer than 20 students, encouraging personal

relationships with faculty. “My professors have been so much more than just

teachers to me— they have become my friends, travel partners, mentors, and role

models,” enthuses an English and history double major. The most popular majors

are business administration, biology, psychology, and history. These are also some

of PC’s strongest programs, along with English and music. Computational biology is

an unusual offering. Aspiring engineers can take advantage of dual- degree programs

Website: www .presby .edu

Location: Small Town

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,110

Undergraduates: 873

Male/Female: 50/50

Financial Aid: 89%

Pell Grant: 30%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 72%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 3,329

Accepted: 59%

Enrolled: 14%

Grad in 6 Years: 63%

Returning Freshmen: 70%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (864) 808- 1880

Email Address: admissions @

presby .edu

Strong Programs:

Business Administration

Biology

Psychology

History

English

Music

Computational Biology

Prepharmacy

“My professors have been

so much more than just

teachers to me— they have

become my friends.”

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552 PRESBYTERIAN COLLEGE

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with Auburn, Clemson, Georgia Tech, and other institutions. High- achieving stu-

dents desiring a degree in pharmacy can apply to the Early Entry Pre- Pharmacy

Program, which allows them to earn a doctorate degree in six years through the PC

School of Pharmacy.

Options for off- campus study, in which 20 percent of students partake, include

semester- long exchange programs as well as highly popular, short- term Maymester

trips led by faculty to destinations such as Australia, Greece, South Africa, India,

and, of course, Scotland. For eight weeks each summer, 10 to 25 Summer Fellows

receive stipends to live on campus, undertake independent research guided by fac-

ulty, and present the findings of their work. Fifteen percent of all undergrads get

involved in research.

While less than 10 percent of students are Presbyterian, the campus atmosphere

is distinctively Christian. “Our students practice servitude and Christian love in

their daily lives,” a senior says. Thirty- seven percent of undergraduates hail from

states outside South Carolina, and 4 percent come from nations abroad. Minorities

are a small but increasing presence on campus: Black students make up 19 percent

of the population, Hispanics/Latinos 6 percent, Asian Americans 1 percent, and

multiracial students 5 percent. Politically, reports a senior, “PC seems to be split

between both major political parties.” Merit scholarships worth an average of

$21,500 are handed out to eligible students, as are roughly 100 athletic awards.

Ninety- three percent of Presbyterian students live on campus, where accommo-

dations range from traditional rooms with hall baths to suites and apartments, and

quality is said to vary. Housing selection is based on academic standing: in each

class, students with the most credits and the best

grades get to choose first. “It’s more incentive to

study hard and have a good GPA so you can live

where you want to live,” explains a business

administration major. The two dining facilities on campus, a buffet- style dining hall

and a food court, receive mixed reviews. “The Sunday buffet is awesome. After

church, people from the community pay to eat in our cafeteria,” says an English

major. A senior notes that the campus feels safe and the school’s strict honor code

means that “you can trust your neighbors at PC.”

Twenty- three percent of PC’s men and 30 percent of the women join Greek

groups, and “social life is very active,” says one student. “Fraternity Court is the

popular spot on weekend nights.” The school has taken a firm stand against under-

age and unsafe drinking: all frat parties must be registered and attended by sober

party monitors, while staff check IDs and distribute under- 21 wristbands at the door.

For alternatives, the Student Activities Board hosts movie nights, coffeehouses, art

nights, and other events on campus, and many students join clubs. Owing to PC’s

aforementioned motto, Student Volunteer Services is the largest organization on

campus, routinely sending students to local orphanages, nursing homes, schools,

and other facilities where their time and talents can be helpful. Favorite annual tra-

ditions include Shuckin’ and Shaggin’, an oyster roast and dance in the fall, and

Spring Fling, a weekend carnival. Students also look forward to the Christmas at PC

concert and to the outdoor graduation ceremony under the oaks, complete with

bagpipes. As for the surrounding area, “Clinton is not a very active town,” states a

business administration major, so students usually head to Greenville, Spartanburg,

or Columbia (all within an hour’s drive) when they want to get off campus for a bite

to eat or shopping. PC is equidistant from South Carolina’s mountains and beaches,

providing many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

PC’s 19 varsity sports teams compete in Division I. The college’s mascot is the

Blue Hose, a reference to the stockings of their Scottish ancestors. (While some

students wear kilts during athletic events, most constrain such enthusiasm, says

Favorite annual

traditions include

Shuckin’ and Shaggin’,

an oyster roast and

dance in the fall,

and Spring Fling, a

weekend carnival.

“Our students practice

servitude and Christian

love in their daily lives.”

Sophomores take a

course that helps them

explore potential

career paths.

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PRESCOTT COLLEGE 553

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

a junior.) Men’s tennis is a recent Big South Conference winner, and other strong

programs include women’s wrestling, tennis, and basketball and men’s soccer.

Recreational sports are divided into three divisions, depending on how competitive

you are. All students may take advantage of PC’s 31- acre recreational facility, with

lighted softball, football, and soccer fields, volleyball courts, a basketball court, a

track, and an amphitheater.

Presbyterian College students take pride in the school’s history and traditions,

including its very own tartan. PC’s church affiliation keeps students focused on ser-

vice and on bettering the broader world, adding dimension to their classroom experi-

ences. One Blue Hose sums it up this way: “PC is Southern, classic, timeless, and fun!”

Overlaps

Wofford, Anderson,

Furman, Charleston

Southern,

Berry, Sewanee,

Oglethorpe

If You Apply To ›

Presbyterian: Early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Prescott College

220 Grove Avenue, Prescott, AZ 86301

With its commitment to environmental studies, sustainability, and social justice in a

liberal arts context, Prescott attracts students who love the outdoors and are looking

for an alternative college experience. Unique academic calendar. Has ready access

to northern Arizona and southern Utah, the nation’s most exotic outdoor playground.

College of the Atlantic is the only remotely comparable college in the Fiske Guide. If

you loved Outward Bound, consider Prescott.

Future Hunger Games contestants take note: this tiny outpost in the wilderness of

central Arizona is a perfect spot for the nature lover who seeks adventure, wants to

learn survival skills, and likes studying outdoors. Where else but Prescott College

could you major in adventure education or take courses like Backcountry Skiing and

Avalanche Training, Ecopsychology, and Barrio Pedagogy? Before any Prescott stu-

dent sets foot in a classroom, they head to the outback for three weeks of hiking and

camping, or to the town of Prescott for service learning, research projects, and field

trips. Wilderness Orientation and Community- Based Orientation offer an intro-

duction to everything Prescott stands for: hands- on experience, personal and social

responsibility, cooperative living, and stewardship of the environment.

Founded in 1966 and still the only private liberal arts college in Arizona, Prescott

retains the air of a 1960s commune. Surrounded by national forest, the college’s

“campus” consists of a two- block- long handful

of buildings in the small town of Prescott. The

architectural style of the campus ranges from the

historic to the modern. The largest of the col-

lege’s buildings is the Crossroads Center, an all- green building, which houses the

library, computer labs, classrooms, conference centers, and the Crossroads Café. The

administrative building was once a convent; its chapel is now used for meetings, art

shows, and performances.

Prescott’s requirements for graduation are characteristically unorthodox. Instead

of grades, faculty members give narrative evaluations, although students may elect to

receive grades. And rather than accruing credits, students design individualized “degree

plans” that outline the competence (major) and breadth (minor/concentration) areas

Website: www .prescott .edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 479

Undergraduates: 243

Male/Female: 40/60

Financial Aid: 68%

Pell Grant: 43%

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 81%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 186

Accepted: 98%

Enrolled: 18%

Grad in 6 Years: 57%

Returning Freshmen: 54%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% %

Q of L:

Admissions: (877) 350- 2100

Email Address: admissions @

prescott .edu

“You can interact with your

coursework in a way that’s

more meaningful to you.”

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554 PRESCOTT COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

they will pursue and the Senior Project (thesis) they will complete to demonstrate

competence (graduate). Students must obtain two levels of writing certification (col-

lege level and thesis level) and math certification, showing knowledge of college- level

algebra. Students also take a set of required interdisciplinary Core Curriculum courses,

which are cotaught by faculty from multiple fields. Prescott’s personal touch even

extends to graduation, a unique experience where a faculty member speaks about

each student personally and then the student speaks on their own behalf.

Prescott bills itself as a college “for the liberal arts and the environment,” and

students tend to envision themselves becoming teachers, researchers, park rangers,

wilderness guides, social activists, and the like. To design their degree plans, stu-

dents start by selecting an area of study: adventure education, arts and letters, cul-

tural and regional studies, education, environmental studies, psychology and

human development, or sustainable community development. Those with eclectic

interests can opt for interdisciplinary studies to

blend courses from multiple areas. Each area of

study offers several concentrations. In the stand-

out environmental studies program, for instance,

concentrations cover impressive breadth and

depth, ranging from earth science and marine studies to natural history and ecol-

ogy. Adventure education, in which students learn everything from alpine moun-

taineering to sea kayaking, is also a specialty. The teacher preparation program offers

students teaching credentials in elementary and secondary education. Several pro-

grams have accelerated pathways in which undergrads can earn a master’s degree

tuition- free. Prescott does not offer a comprehensive program in advanced math,

chemistry, physics, or foreign languages other than Spanish.

“People are inspired to work hard because their projects reflect their passions,

not because they’re worried about getting an A,” observes one senior. A human con-

sciousness major adds, “Because you’re not cramming for the next test (I never took

one here), you can interact with your coursework in a way that’s more meaningful

to you.” There’s no tenure track at Prescott, and publishing and research take a back

seat to teaching, although students warn that the quality of instruction can be

inconsistent. With virtually all classes enrolling fewer than 20 students, the aca-

demic atmosphere is intimate, to say the least.

Prescott’s academic calendar consists of two 16- week terms, each of which is divided

into four blocks. During each block, students pursue intense immersion in just one

course for four weeks, a model designed to allow maximum flexibility for fieldwork,

community- based studies, and outdoor learning.

Students may spend a block in the backcountry of

Baja California or the alpine meadows of Wyoming,

for example, or in a local service clinic. Students

can even take a one- month rafting trip down the Colorado River for credit. Though

Prescott does not offer a traditional study abroad program, students are encouraged to

take courses in marine biology and cultural studies at the Kino Bay Center for Cultural

and Ecological Studies in Mexico, as well as a social justice course in Kenya; about half

of Prescott students have an international experience by the time they graduate.

“Prescott’s campus has no borders,” says a sustainable community development major.

“There are so many opportunities to go abroad or be out in the field.” Paid internships

are available through partnerships with AmeriCorps and other organizations.

“There is a ‘hippie’ stereotype of PC students, but I think that image is slowly

shifting,” remarks a senior. Environmental issues still predominate among the lib-

eral student body. Despite the challenges of low retention and graduation rates,

Prescott’s unconventional approach continues to entice students well beyond

Arizona. Prescott’s Changemaker Scholarship is bringing in more students by

(continued)

Strong Programs:

Environmental Studies

Adventure Education

Education

Psychology and Human

Development

Cultural and Regional Studies

Arts and Letters

“There is a ‘hippie’

stereotype of PC students,

but I think that image is

slowly shifting.”

Founded in 1966 and

still the only private

liberal arts college

in Arizona, Prescott

retains the air of a

1960s commune.

“There are so many

opportunities to go abroad

or be out in the field.”

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PRINCETON UNIVERSITY 555

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awarding guaranteed tuition scholarships worth up to $16,000 per year to every

incoming undergraduate who enrolls in a degree program. Currently, 68 percent of

undergraduates are out- of- staters; less than 1 percent come from other countries.

The minority population is small but growing, with Black students making up 4 per-

cent of the total, Hispanics/Latinos 4 percent, Asian Americans 4 percent, American

Indians 2 percent, and multiracial students 1 percent. Pell Grant recipients represent

43 percent of incoming freshmen.

Twenty- six percent of full- time undergrads call the on- campus housing units— a

grouping of eight- person townhouses known as the Village— home. The vast major-

ity of students fend for themselves in the town of Prescott, a rapidly growing com-

munity of approximately 47,000 where almost everything is accessible by bicycle.

The college assists with the apartment hunt by providing lists of available properties

and by cosigning leases when necessary. The Crossroads Café, the only dining facil-

ity, draws praise for being tasty and fresh. “Omnivores, vegetarians, vegans, and

gluten- free folk all love the food in the café,” cheers one student. Additionally, “The

café staff offer cooking lessons throughout the semester. There’s also free commu-

nity lunch every Wednesday.”

Social life at Prescott is informal, often consisting of small, “mellow” off- campus

parties. With fewer than 20 student organizations and no strong traditions to speak

of, students say the campus doesn’t offer much in the way of a social scene. “If

you love the outdoors, Prescott is great. Do not come here for a social experience,”

advises an adventure education major. As for the townsfolk, students describe them

as “a mix of artists, activists, students, locals, retirees, and ranchers.” Those looking

for nightlife can hit Whiskey Row, the town bar scene, or drive to Flagstaff (90 min-

utes) or Phoenix (two hours).

The college offers just one sport— cycling— which has won titles in road cycling,

mountain biking, and cyclocross. For other sports, students often participate in city

leagues. “Our school has bike jousting, juggling, barefoot soccer, ultimate Frisbee, and

capoeira— none of which involve competing against other schools,” says one student.

Prescott may not have the huge campus or financial resources that are typically

associated with larger schools; however, the small classes and specialized programs

appeal to a student who would not be interested in your “typical” college. As a

senior explains, “Our passion and dedication to education spring from a deep inner

desire to effect positive change in the world.”

Several programs have

accelerated pathways

in which undergrads

can earn a master’s

degree tuition- free.

Overlaps

Alaska Pacific,

College of the

Atlantic, Warren

Wilson, Dickinson,

Northern Arizona,

Arizona State, Fort

Lewis

If You Apply To ›

Prescott: Rolling admissions. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application with supplement.

Princeton University

110 West College, Princeton, NJ 08544

Princeton is the smallest of the Ivy League’s Big Three, which means more attention

from faculty and plenty of opportunity for rigorous independent work. Offers

engineering but no business major. The affluent suburban location contrasts with

urban New Haven and Cambridge. Residential college system modeled on Yale’s

provides a support network and a social alternative to long- standing eating clubs.

Generous financial aid program covers full tuition, room, and board for about one-

quarter of undergraduates.

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556 PRINCETON UNIVERSITY

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Princeton occupies a distinctive niche among America’s superelite universities. It is a

major research university with a world- class corps of professors who, in the absence

of lots of graduate and professional students, lavish their attention on a relatively

modest number of undergraduates. Princeton has an engineering school as well as

programs in applied science, architecture and public planning, and public policy

and an Entrepreneurial Hub near campus, but it is basically an “arts and sciences

university.” The academic atmosphere across campus is dominated by commitment

to the liberal arts— with a carefully structured set of core requirements and a heavy

emphasis on independent study, including a mandatory senior thesis. A sophomore

says, “What sets Princeton students apart is that they come here not just for an

excellent education, but they come to share knowledge with others.”

For better or worse, Princeton has been known as a bastion of exclusivity,

although its undergraduates are now just as racially and ethnically diverse as any

other Ivy League school. Still, university leaders are looking to make Princeton’s

particular brand of high- powered undergraduate

liberal arts education available to an even more

diverse group of students. Sensitive to faculty

complaints that Princeton enrolls too many

bright students whose main claim to fame is that

they have learned to work the system, the admis-

sions office is on the lookout for more students with demonstrated intellectual

curiosity— including more STEM majors, creative types, and high- ability/low- income

students. The administration has made major investments in the sciences, engineer-

ing, and creative and performing arts to enhance these efforts. The Emma Bloomberg

Center for Access and Opportunity provides all students with mentorship and aca-

demic enrichment opportunities. Two of the center’s programs aimed at supporting

first- generation, low- income, and other underrepresented students include the

Freshman Scholars Institute, which offers an academic and social introduction to

Princeton over the summer before classes start, and the Scholars Institute Fellows

Program that covers all four years.

Cloistered in a secluded but upscale New Jersey town, Princeton’s architectural

trademark is Gothic, from the cavernous and ornate university chapel to the four-

pronged Cleveland Tower rising majestically above the treetops. Interspersed among

the Gothic are examples of colonial architecture, most notably historic Nassau Hall,

which served as the temporary home of the Continental Congress in 1783 and has

defined elegance in academic architecture ever since. A host of modern structures,

some by leading American architects Robert Venturi, Frank Gehry, and I. M. Pei,

add variety and distinction to the campus, but the ambiance is still quintessen-

tial Ivy League at its best. The outstanding library facilities embrace five million

volumes and provide 500 private study carrels for seniors working on those man-

datory theses; there are another 700 enclosed carrels in other parts of the campus.

Princeton’s campus is self- contained, but those who venture outside its walls will

find the surroundings quite pleasing. One side of the campus abuts quaint Nassau

Street, which is dominated by chic (and pricey) boutiques and restaurants, as well

as coffee shops and more affordable eateries. The other side of campus ends with a

huge man- made lake that was financed by Andrew Carnegie so that Princetonians

would not have to forgo crew. Two new residential colleges, Yeh College and New

College West, opened in 2022, and a third, Hobson College, is slated for completion

in 2026. A new art museum designed by Sir David Adjaye, renowned designer of the

National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., is

expected to open in 2024.

Princeton became the model for American- style liberal arts colleges after John

Witherspoon was lured from the University of Edinburgh to become president in 1768.

Website: www .princeton .edu

Location: Suburban

Private

Total Enrollment: 8,739

Undergraduates: 5,527

Male/Female: 50/50

Financial Aid: 62%

Pell Grant: 22%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 17%

Average Debt: $

Applicants: 38,019

Accepted: 6%

Enrolled: 69%

Grad in 6 Years: 98%

Returning Freshmen: 97%

Academics:

- - - - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (609) 258- 3060

Email Address: uaoffice @

princeton .edu

Strong Programs:

Mathematics

Philosophy

Architecture

Economics

History

Computer Science

Engineering

Public and International Affairs

“Princeton students . . .

come here not just for an

excellent education, but . . .

to share knowledge with

others.”

Princeton requires

every graduate to

complete a senior

thesis— an enterprise

that serves as a

culmination of their

work in their field

of concentration.

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Today, Princeton is distinctive in its modest scale and its emphasis on undergraduates.

Each student’s Princeton experience begins with a week of orientation; each year, 800

students participate in Outdoor Action, a few days of wilderness activities immediately

preceding orientation. All first- year students are also assigned a faculty advisor. Seventy-

four percent of undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students. With fewer gradu-

ate students to siphon off resources or consume faculty time than at large research

universities, undergraduates get the lion’s— or

should we say Tiger’s!— share of both; at last count,

70 percent of Princeton’s department heads taught

introductory undergraduate courses. An econom-

ics major says, “I can open the newspaper and read

my professor’s article or turn on the TV and see him giving a speech, then go to a lec-

ture to hear him speak, then go to his office to speak with him one- on- one.” Two-

thirds of new students work closely with senior faculty members by participating in the

optional Freshman Seminar program, choosing from more than 75 options offered

annually, ranging from the Physics of Music to the Search for Life in the Universe.

Lovers of literature can study with poet Paul Muldoon, and nearly every other depart-

ment has a few stars of its own. “We have some of the most brilliant professors in the

world here,” confirms a junior. Senior professors lead at least one or two of the small

discussion groups that accompany each lecture course.

Every student must fulfill distribution requirements in culture and difference,

epistemology and cognition, ethical thought and moral values, historical analysis,

literature and the arts, social analysis, quantitative and computational reasoning, and

science and engineering. Students also take a first- year writing seminar and must

demonstrate proficiency in a language other than English. During their junior year,

liberal arts students work closely with a faculty member of their choice in completing

two junior papers— about 30 pages of independent work each semester in addition to

the normal courseload. Princeton also requires every graduate to complete a senior

thesis— an enterprise that serves as a culmination of their work in their field of con-

centration. As a result, “seniors develop close personal relationships with their thesis

advisors,” says one student. Alumni often cite the thesis as one of their best experi-

ences at Princeton.

Naturally, given Princeton’s small size, the number of courses offered is smaller

than at other Ivies, but students still have many high- quality options. Princeton’s

math and philosophy departments are among the best in the nation, and architec-

ture, economics, history, public policy, English,

physics, molecular biology, and romance lan-

guages are right on their heels. As part of a major

effort to become a national center in the field of

molecular biology, the university supports a sizable laboratory for teaching and

research. Princeton is one of the few top liberal arts universities with equally strong

computer science and engineering programs, most notably chemical, mechanical,

electrical, and aerospace engineering. Operations research and financial engineering

is one of the fastest- growing majors. One of Princeton’s best- known programs is the

prestigious Princeton School of Public and International Affairs (formerly named

after Woodrow Wilson, a former Princeton president), which offers a multidisci-

plinary, policy- focused major for undergraduates. The university renamed the school

in 2020 after years of student protests over former president Wilson’s strong advo-

cacy of racial segregation. Sixty- one percent of students study abroad in 100- plus

programs offered in more than 40 nations. For those wishing to postpone their entry

into the university in favor of an international experience, Princeton’s Bridge Year

program covers the full cost of one- year service abroad programs in Bolivia, India,

Indonesia, and Senegal.

“I can open the newspaper

and read my professor’s

article . . . then go to a

lecture to hear him speak.”

Seventy percent

of Princeton’s

department heads

teach introductory

undergraduate

courses.

“Seniors develop close

personal relationships with

their thesis advisors.”

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558 PRINCETON UNIVERSITY

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

“The courses are very challenging and rigorous,” a junior reports, “but perhaps

because of that, people are very cooperative. They realize that no one can really suc-

ceed alone.” The university honor code, unique among the Ivies, allows for unproc-

tored exams. A limited number of courses can be taken on the pass/fail option.

Although the faculty gets high ratings for its academic advising, students are rather

cool on the university’s nonacademic counseling programs.

“Our students are tight- knit, extremely hardworking, highly cooperative, and

supportive of one another’s activities,” says an economics major. Eighteen percent

of undergraduates are New Jersey residents, and 12 percent are international. Black

students account for 8 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos 10 percent,

Asian Americans 24 percent, and multiracial students 7 percent. While diversity is

present, the social atmosphere can be somewhat stratified. “As an African American,

I can say that even the African Americans are subdivided based on economics, place

of origin, and whether you went to public or private school,” explains one senior.

Although students report that there can be a general air of apathy around campus,

administrators are quick to point to the numerous political organizations on

campus as evidence of students’ interest in political and social issues. Princeton

undergraduates, both domestic and international, are admitted to the university

without regard to their financial need, and those who qualify for aid receive gener-

ous support that covers their full demonstrated need. In fact, Princeton was the first

university in the U.S. to replace loans with grants for all aid recipients. Students

from families with annual incomes of less than $100,000 do not pay tuition, room,

or board and also receive grants of $4,050 per year to assist with the cost of books

and personal expenses. Most students from families with annual incomes of less

than $150,000 only pay $12,500 per year.

In an attempt to improve campus life and broaden the social options, Princeton

has grouped its dorms into eight residential colleges, each with its own dining hall,

faculty residents, and an active social calendar. Under this system, nearly all stu-

dents live and dine with their residential college

unit for all four years. Just 5 percent of under-

graduates live off campus. The university’s

turn- of- the- century Gothic dorms may look like

crosses between cathedrals and castles, but stu-

dents say conditions on the inside are sometimes less glamorous. Some halls offer

apartment- and suite- style layouts.

Princeton’s eating clubs are its most firmly entrenched bastions of tradition.

Run by students and unaffiliated with the school, they line Prospect Avenue and

have, for more than a century, assumed the dual role of weekday dining hall and

weekend fraternity. Of the 11, five admit members through an open lottery, but the

others still use a controversial selective admissions process called bicker (because

of the wrangling over whom to admit), to the chagrin of the administration and

most students. While many of the clubs opened their doors to women back when

Princeton went co- ed, two of the oldest and most exclusive— the Ivy Club and the

Tiger Inn— remained all- male until 1991, when a court decision compelled them to

admit women. Now, all the clubs are co- ed.

Catering exclusively to upperclassmen, the eating clubs provide a secure sense

of community for their members. More than half of all sophomores join one of the

clubs at the end of the year, becoming full- fledged members by the fall of their

junior year. Annual dues vary; the most expensive is the Ivy Club, which charges its

members nearly $12,000 a year. Financial aid covers eating costs for those who qual-

ify and want to join. Unfortunately, the social options for those who choose not to

join may feel limited. All too often the upper- level eating clubs steal the thunder

from college- sponsored social events. As a result, “the underclassmen spend too

The admissions office

is on the lookout

for more students

with demonstrated

intellectual curiosity.

“People are very

cooperative. They realize

that no one can really

succeed alone.”

Princeton was the

first university in

the U.S. to replace

loans with grants for

all aid recipients.

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PRINCIPIA COLLEGE 559

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

much time pining for the day when they, too, can join the closest thing Princeton

has to cliques,” says one student. Some opt for life in independent dormitories or

join the handful of Greek fraternities and sororities (not sanctioned by the adminis-

tration) that have sprung up on campus over the past few years and have become

feeders to particular eating clubs.

“Virtually all social life takes place on campus, both at the eating clubs and at

dorm parties,” says a sophomore. Princeton has the oldest licensed college radio

station in the nation, plenty of journalistic opportunities, a prestigious debating

and politics society (Whig- Clio) whose ranks have included James Madison and

Aaron Burr, and a plethora of arts offerings. The McCarter Theatre Center, adja-

cent to campus, houses Princeton’s Triangle Club, which counted Jimmy Stewart

and Brooke Shields as members. The roundup of annual campus events includes

lawn parties in the fall and spring and an international festival. Each year about

60 percent of students engage in volunteer activities such as tutoring, working in

soup kitchens, or helping the elderly. Few students complain about boredom, and

many praise the affluent town of Princeton for the parks, woods, bike trails, and,

most important, the quiet and safety it offers students. Students rarely venture

much farther than New York or Philadelphia, each one hour away (in opposite

directions) on the train.

Athletics are a big deal at Princeton, both varsity and intramural. Several of the

Tigers’ 38 Division I teams have claimed recent Ivy League conference titles, among

them football, men’s soccer and cross- country, and women’s basketball, lacrosse,

rowing, fencing, and golf. Women’s rugby is the

newest addition to the varsity roster. Dozens of

club and intramural sports are available, ranging

from archery to ballroom dancing to handball,

and the eating clubs and residential colleges offer recreational athletic programs too.

Every spring students compete in the annual dodgeball tournament.

Princeton’s unofficial motto is “Princeton in the nation’s service and the service

of humanity,” and the oft- repeated notion that with privilege comes responsibility

lives on as part of its culture. It’s easy to be humbled at Princeton. Even the most

jaded students must be awed and inspired when they think of those who’ve tra-

versed the campus paths before them. While some may find the ambiance too insu-

lar, not many turn down membership in this very rewarding club.

More than half of all

sophomores join one

of the eating clubs at

the end of the year.

“Virtually all social life takes

place . . . at the eating

clubs and at dorm parties.”

Overlaps

Harvard,

Stanford, Yale,

MIT, Columbia,

University of

Pennsylvania

If You Apply To ›

Princeton: Single choice early action, regular decision. Accepts the Common Application. Applicants must submit a graded,

written paper, preferably from an English, social studies, or history class. Please consult Princeton’s website for the most

up- to- date information regarding standardized test requirements.

Principia College

Elsah, IL 62028

Prin is a tiny college in a tiny town about an hour from St. Louis. Most of its students,

faculty, and staff are practicing Christian Scientists. Prin is mainly liberal arts,

though one of its most popular programs is business administration. Sixty percent of

students study abroad. Campus tenor is similar to other places like Pepperdine and

Wheaton (IL) that take their religious values seriously.

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560 PRINCIPIA COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Many students come to Principia College with a common bond— Christian

Science. They shun smoking, drinking, drugs, and sex in favor of God and learn-

ing. Prin graduates are culturally, spiritually, and intellectually well- rounded, the

product of a liberal arts education that promotes critical thinking and a broad

worldview. As the only college anywhere for Christian Scientists, Prin, founded

in 1912 with the goal of “serving the Cause of Christian Science” (but with no

formal ties to the Boston- based church), attracts a lot of international students.

The historic campus is reminiscent of Harry Potter’s Hogwarts, but the fictional

school of wizardry never had a woolly mammoth to unearth as Prin once did. Says

one senior, Prin “has a warm, calm, and cozy atmosphere that reminds me of a

second home.”

Principia’s 2,600- acre campus, on limestone bluffs above the mighty Mississippi

River, is a designated National Historic Landmark. The dominant architectural influ-

ences are colonial American, Tudor, and medieval, and many buildings— including

most student housing— were designed by

California architect Bernard Maybeck. A contem-

porary of Frank Lloyd Wright, Maybeck urged

Principia trustees to bring the college to its cur-

rent spot when they relocated from St. Louis in 1935. The College Chapel, whose

bells ring out hymns every Sunday evening, is the symbolic center of campus. An

$18 million renovation of the college’s main administrative and student services

building was completed in 2021.

In addition to coursework in their major, students must complete a broad range

of distribution requirements in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sci-

ences, as well as two physical education courses. All freshmen participate in a first-

year experience program their first semester, and all seniors must complete either

a capstone course or a major- related internship. Of the 26 majors offered, the most

popular are sociology, studio art, business administration, mass communication,

and educational studies. Environmental studies, visual and performing arts, and

religious studies are also strong. A dual- degree program in engineering science is

available in conjunction with the University of North Dakota.

Academics are challenging, but students can count on each other and their pro-

fessors for help. “Most classes take advantage of group work in small teams, and

this helps you develop teamwork, leadership, and collaborative skills,” says a senior.

Most professors receive high marks. “Due to the small classroom style, faculty mem-

bers are extremely accessible,” says a business administration major. Sixty percent

of Principia students participate in the five or six study abroad programs the school

organizes each year. Each program enrolls 18 to 22 students, and sites are deter-

mined by academic subject and focus. Recent locations have included England,

Malawi, Spain, Nepal, and New Zealand. Others participate in a prairie restoration

program, gather data for the study of the Mississippi River’s aquatic life, or build

solar cars to be entered in races around the world.

“We strive to be the most moral people we can be,” says one junior. The

minority population is minuscule— 3 percent of students are Black, 6 percent are

Hispanic/Latino, 1 percent are Asian American, and 3 percent are multiracial.

Still, an impressive 39 percent of students arrive from abroad, and only 9 percent

are from Illinois. One international student says, “I’ve found that diversity posi-

tively impacts me. I’ve learned that there are more good things that bind us than

negative things that divide us as human beings.” Principia does not accept any

governmental financial aid, so Pell Grants and the typical federal loans are not

available to students, but the school does offer merit scholarships averaging

$17,800, grants, and private, institutionally funded loans. No athletic scholar-

ships are available.

Website: www .principiacollege

.edu

Location: Rural

Private

Total Enrollment: 314

Undergraduates: 314

Male/Female: 56/44

Financial Aid: 81%

Pell Grant: N/A

Expense: Pr $

Student Loans: 74%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 207

Accepted: 48%

Enrolled: 61%

Grad in 6 Years: 79%

Returning Freshmen: 86%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

H H H H

Admissions: (618) 374- 5181

Email Address:

principiacollegeadmissions @

principia .edu

Strong Programs:

Environmental Studies

Political Science

Religious Studies

Sociology

Studio Art

Business Administration

Mass Communication

Educational Studies

“Due to the small classroom

style, faculty members are

extremely accessible.”

A sit- down pub

and restaurant on

campus provides

a nice alternative

to traditional

dining- hall fare.

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All students live on campus, except for the few who are married or live locally

with their parents. “The housing at Principia is superb, in the form of large, his-

torical houses rather than the typical dormitory,” says a senior. Students are

expected not to be in wings where the opposite sex lives during “house hours”

every night. Freshmen live in two modernized Maybeck houses with upperclass-

men resident advisors trained to help new students adjust to college life. “Each

house has its own sense of culture and traditions, and houses have brother-

sister relationships as well as rivalries,” explains a business administration and

mass communication major. A sit- down pub and restaurant on campus provides

a nice alternative to traditional dining- hall fare. “Dining facilities are improv-

ing, but vegetarians and vegans are still struggling,” reports a junior. Students

agree that they feel safe on campus, citing the rural location and a strong secu-

rity presence.

In addition to eschewing alcohol, tobacco, and drugs, students are also asked

to sign a pledge of abstention from premarital and extramarital sexual relation-

ships. “Those who sign the contract are committed to those morals for religious

reasons,” a political science major says. “It’s a wonderful thing not to have to deal

with alcohol on campus,” adds a senior. It goes without saying that Greek organi-

zations are nonexistent; instead of partying,

students keep busy at school- sponsored con-

certs, movies, dances, or intramural sporting

events that pit one house against another. “Prin

is remote enough where people stay on campus

during the weekends to attend our awesome

social events,” says one student. Each house organizes its own annual celebration,

international students show off their native cuisines at the Whole World Festival,

and everyone looks forward to Spring Formal. The Public Affairs Conference is the

oldest student- run event of its type, bringing in big- name speakers to give talks,

lead workshops, and provide networking opportunities to students. “Elsah is not a

college town,” says a junior, complaining that “not much has changed” since the

town was founded in 1853. Stores, restaurants, and movie theaters are about

20 minutes away in Alton, and St. Louis is about an hour’s drive.

Principia’s Panthers compete in Division III, and men’s soccer and rugby, men’s

and women’s tennis and basketball are especially competitive. Thirty- five percent

of students play intramural and club sports; sand volleyball, basketball, and eSports

teams are strong. Campus athletic facilities include a four- court indoor tennis center,

a field house with gym and pool, and outdoor courts and running trails.

Prin students embrace the conservative environment at their Christian Scientist

school. Gone are the pressures that take hold of most college students, and a politi-

cal science major says it “promotes character development and personal growth.” A

strong international presence and study abroad opportunities give students a taste

of what lies beyond this quaint rural campus, but in the meantime, a junior says,

students enjoy the comfort of Prin’s “supportive community of like- minded

thinkers.”

“Prin is remote enough

where people stay on

campus during the

weekends to attend our

awesome social events.”

All freshmen

participate in a

first- year experience

program their

first semester.

Overlaps

Wheaton (IL),

Pepperdine,

Northwestern,

Purdue, William &

Mary

If You Apply To ›

Principia: Rolling admissions. Please consult Principia’s website for the most up- to- date information regarding standard-

ized test requirements. Accepts the Common Application with supplement. Only college in the world that admits only

Christian Scientists.

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562 PROVIDENCE COLLEGE

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

Providence College

Providence, RI 02918

Strong Catholic atmosphere makes Providence more comparable to Notre Dame

than to nearby Boston College or Holy Cross. Liberal arts emphasis rooted in a

required two- year interdisciplinary Western Civilization sequence, though more than

a third of the students eventually opt for business disciplines. Friars athletic teams

do well in small but high- profile Big East Conference. No fraternities or sororities, but

Providence is a vibrant college town.

As the nation’s only college or university operated by the Dominican friars,

Providence College, founded in 1917, wears its Catholic and Dominican identi-

ties on its sleeve. Over 60 percent of students are Catholic, friars in habits walk

the campus grounds, crucifixes adorn the walls of classrooms and offices, and

St. Dominic Chapel stands tall in the heart of the campus. The school’s mission

is grounded in these identities, as it aims to “provide an education for the whole

person— body, mind, and soul— that bridges the common divides between matter

and spirit, God and creation, faith and reason.” Students here enjoy solid offerings

in the sciences and liberal arts— including a unique and rigorous two- year Western

Civ course— and a tight- knit community of like- minded men and women.

Located only an hour’s drive from Boston and just a few hours’ drive from New

York City, Providence College’s 105- acre campus is situated in Rhode Island’s capital

city. The campus boasts open spaces, beautiful lawns, and student- centered facili-

ties. The traditional brick and stone academic

buildings, residence halls, and campus chapel

coexist with several contemporary structures.

The college’s campus transformation project has

added several new facilities over the past decade,

among them the Ruane Center for the Humanities, a four- level addition to the

Science Complex, and the $30 million Ryan Center for Business Studies. A new nurs-

ing and health sciences building is slated to open in 2025.

The heart of Providence’s Core Curriculum is a sequence of seminar- based classes

that comprise the Development of Western Civilization (DWC). This 16- credit course

spans students’ freshman and sophomore years and introduces them to the seminal

ideas and primary texts in history, literature, theology, and philosophy as well as the

music and visual arts that shaped the Western world and other civilizations. Aside from

DWC, students take additional coursework in theology, philosophy, natural science,

social science, quantitative reasoning, and fine arts, and they must demonstrate pro-

ficiency in intensive writing, oral communication, diversity, and civic engagement.

Providence comprises four schools: arts and sciences, business, education and

social work, and nursing and health sciences. The noteworthy School of Business

draws 40 percent of the students and offers some of the most popular majors,

include marketing, finance, accountancy, and management. All School of Business

majors share a common set of core courses to ensure that business graduates have a

broad understanding of all essential business disciplines. Biology, psychology, and

education are also popular choices, and the chemistry and biochemistry program is

strong. Providence has added majors in nursing, health sciences, and neuroscience.

The college also offers a combined degree program with the New England College of

Optometry, which allows for completion of the B.A. and doctorate in seven years.

“The academic climate at Providence College is rigorous but supportive,” says a

junior. Fifty- nine percent of the undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students

Website: www .providence .edu

Location: City Outskirts

Private

Total Enrollment: 4,322

Undergraduates: 4,110

Male/Female: 46/54

Financial Aid: 74%

Pell Grant: 17%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 72%

Average Debt: $ $ $ $

Applicants: 11,129

Accepted: 53%

Enrolled: 20%

Grad in 6 Years: 86%

Returning Freshmen: 90%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (401) 865- 2535

Email Address: pcadmiss @

providence .edu

Strong Programs:

Marketing

Finance

Accountancy

Management

Biology

Psychology

Education

Chemistry

“[Most students are]

preppy, white, Catholic,

and generally upper middle

class.”

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PROVIDENCE COLLEGE 563

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

and are taught by tenured or junior faculty. A Spanish and global studies double

major says, “Professors here go the extra mile for their students. They are enthusi-

astic and available to us.” The Liberal Arts Honors Program offers students of high

academic ability and initiative a more in- depth and rigorous version of PC’s core

curriculum, and small, seminar- style honors courses are offered in virtually all areas.

Students have ample opportunity for experiential learning through internships

and faculty- directed laboratory or field research. PC’s Center for Global Education

sends 40 percent of students to their choice of more than 40 countries, including

Argentina, Italy, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Twelve percent of PC’s undergraduates come from Rhode Island, and the remain-

der are mostly from the Northeast. Most students are “preppy, white, Catholic, and

generally upper middle class,” according to a sophomore. Just 2 percent are interna-

tional. Black students account for 3 percent of the student body, Hispanics/Latinos

9 percent, Asian Americans 2 percent, and multi-

racial students 3 percent. Many students are vocal

about social and political issues, particularly when

it comes to religion and race. “We have a lot of

outspoken liberals and closet Republicans at PC,”

observes a senior. The lack of racial diversity on campus draws near- universal concern:

“I think it is felt very strongly among the minority students that we need more diver-

sity on campus, even with all of our cultural clubs,” says a junior. Merit scholarships

averaging $21,383 are available to qualified students, and gifted athletes may vie for

more than 100 awards.

Sixty- seven percent of students live in the dorms, where conditions are said to

be adequate and well maintained, if not spacious. Options include eight traditional

halls, five apartment buildings, and a suite- style residence. Many seniors move off

campus into the surrounding neighborhoods. Campus dining is “good and con-

stantly getting better,” says a global studies major. “We have a good line of commu-

nication between administration and students, and I feel as if PC has implemented

all that they can to keep students safe,” says an English major.

A junior says the social life is varied and, “There are free events for students to

attend almost every day of the week, including weekends.” Absent a Greek presence,

students find other ways to let off steam. Annual traditions include a spring concert

featuring top national acts and Civ Scream, held at midnight on the eve of Western

Civ finals: “The entire sophomore class circles around the quad and screams to let out

their frustration over Civ. People do crazy things, and it is always something to

remember,” says a student. And although the college is located in “kind of a run-down

area,” an English major says the city of Providence “is full of opportunities,” including

a mall, a movie theater, and a cultural district with all sorts of shops and eateries.

Owing to the college’s strong Catholic identity, community service and volunteer

work are popular pastimes. The city is also home to six other colleges, which enhances

the social scene. Popular road trips include treks into Boston and New York City.

The Providence Friars field 19 varsity teams, most of which play in the compet-

itive Division I Big East Conference (hockey is part of the Hockey East Association).

Highly ranked teams include men’s and women’s ice hockey, basketball, soccer, and

cross- country, as well as women’s field hockey. “Basketball and hockey games are

very important to PC students because we can show our school spirit,” says a soph-

omore. Students get especially rowdy when rivals UConn and URI are in town. A

majority of students get involved in intramurals and club sports, with flag football,

softball, rugby, and lacrosse proving to be particularly popular.

Providence College appeals primarily to those students who want to challenge

themselves academically without compromising their faith. Despite frequent com-

plaints about the length and rigor of the Western Civ requirement and the lack of

“Basketball and hockey

games are very important

to PC students because we

can show our school spirit.”

The noteworthy

School of Business

draws 40 percent

of the students and

offers some of the

most popular majors.

The Civ Scream is held

at midnight on the eve

of Western Civ finals,

when students scream

out their frustrations.

Overlaps

Holy Cross,

Fairfield, Stone

Hill, Villanova,

Loyola University

Maryland, Boston

College, Fordham,

Notre Dame

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564 UNIVERSITY OF PUGET SOUND

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

diversity, students here seem content with what the college has to offer and are

proud to be part of the PC community. “PC is preppy and a great place to be,” says

a senior. “We have Division I school spirit but in a small- school atmosphere.”

If You Apply To ›

Providence: Early decision I and II, early action, regular decision. SATs or ACTs: optional. Accepts the Common Application

with supplement.

University of Puget Sound

1500 North Warner, Tacoma, WA 98416

Ask anyone in Tacoma about Puget Sound and they’ll tell you that UPS (the college,

not the package service) delivers solid liberal arts programs with a touch of business.

Within easy reach of the Sound and Mount Rainier, the university specializes in all

things Asia, including a nine- month university- sponsored trip. Compare to Whitman

and Willamette.

A strong curricular emphasis on global awareness, supportive faculty, and a rela-

tively laid- back atmosphere have raised the profile of the University of Puget Sound,

transforming it from a regional liberal arts college in Tacoma to an undergradu-

ate institution with national reach. The school’s first- rate Asian studies program

continues to draw students interested in cultural studies, Pacific Rim economics,

and international travel, and the UPS community is as close- knit as ever. “People

don’t come here because they have heard of us before,” says one contented senior.

“They come here because they visit and they don’t want to leave.”

Founded by Methodists in 1888 to bring higher education to the region, Puget

Sound is cradled by the Cascade Range and the rugged Olympics, with easy access to

the urban energy of Seattle and the natural beauty

of Mount Rainier. The 97- acre campus boasts care-

fully maintained lawns, native fir trees, and plenty

of other greenery, thanks to the moist climate.

Most buildings, with distinctive arches and porti-

cos, were built in the 1950s and ’60s. Additional facilities include an athletics and

aquatics center and a 3,850- square- foot Sculpture House, with facilities for welding,

woodwork, and painting.

Puget Sound students must complete a core curriculum that includes a freshman

seminar in writing and rhetoric and another in scholarly inquiry and research; they

must also demonstrate foreign language proficiency and take a course on knowl-

edge, identity, and power. In their first three years at Puget Sound, students also

study five Approaches to Knowing— fine arts, humanities, math, natural sciences,

and social sciences. An upper- level capstone course, Connections, challenges tradi-

tional disciplinary boundaries and examines the benefits and limits of an interdisci-

plinary approach to learning.

After navigating UPS’s requirements, students may pursue a B.A., B.S., or B.M.

(bachelor of music) degree. Some of the most popular majors are psychology, pol-

itics and government, economics, business, biology, international political econ-

omy, and neuroscience. “I would recommend the environmental policy and

decision- making classes; you’re often able to go on field trips with professors and

Website: www .pugetsound

.edu

Location: Small City

Private

Total Enrollment: 1,934

Undergraduates: 1,674

Male/Female: 43/57

Financial Aid: 100%

Pell Grant: 18%

Expense: Pr $ $ $

Student Loans: 53%

Average Debt: $ $ $

Applicants: 5,345

Accepted: 83%

Enrolled: 9%

Grad in 6 Years: 76%

Returning Freshmen: 79%

Academics:

- - -

Social:

% % %

Q of L:

Admissions: (253) 879- 3211

Email Address: admission @

pugetsound .edu

Strong Programs:

Asian Studies

Psychology

Politics and Government

Economics

Business

“Students at Puget Sound

are definitely outdoorsy.

Lots of Birkenstocks and

plaid.”

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UNIVERSITY OF PUGET SOUND 565

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2025

working professionals,” notes a senior. The university has developed a reputation as

a jumping- off point to Asia— both literally and figuratively. Its curriculum stresses

two of the fastest- growing fields in the region: Asian studies and Pacific Rim econom-

ics. Nearly one- third of Puget Sounders take at least one Asian studies course, and

once every two years, there’s a nine- month, school- sponsored trip through Japan,

Thailand, Korea, India, China, and Nepal, where participants study art, architecture,

politics, economics, and philosophy. In all, more than 100 study abroad programs

are available in more than 40 nations; 32 percent of students participate. Other

special offerings include a classics- based honors program, the Business Leadership

Program, and residence- based humanities programs.

Students say that while their peers are academically motivated and coursework

can be challenging, the atmosphere at Puget Sound is “generally very relaxed and

enjoyable, with professors always encouraging lots of interaction from students,”

explains a history major. Sixty- eight percent of classes have fewer than 20 students.

“I have been so well taken care of by our professors, and I see them as instructors but

also mentors,” says a psychology major. Students also praise the plentiful opportu-

nities for undergraduate research, which have ranged from examining bacteria on

lizard eggs to summer fieldwork studying graffiti in Europe. Advising, which includes

both academic and peer advisors, and career services receive positive reviews.

“Students at Puget Sound are definitely outdoorsy,” says a Hispanic studies

junior. “Lots of Birkenstocks and plaid. Politically liberal, for the most part.” Most

come from western states, with 29 percent hailing from Washington; less than

1 percent come from abroad. Black students make up only 3 percent of the student

body, Hispanics/Latinos 12 percent, Asian Americans 8 percent, and multiracial stu-

dents 9 percent. According to a junior, “There is a big push for more diversity on

campus,” and students are also concerned with LGBTQ rights, gender equality, and

environmental issues. There are no athletic scholarships, but merit awards averaging

$23,325 are doled out annually.

Sixty- six percent of Puget Sound students live on campus, and freshmen and

sophomores are required to do so. First- year students all live together, and after that

students may live in Greek chapter housing, pursue a single room in the dorms, or

apply for one of 60 university- owned houses,

many of which focus on themes like outdoor

leadership and music. “The surrounding neigh-

borhood is happy to rent out houses to students

who choose to live off campus their junior and senior years,” reports a computer

science major. Aside from the main campus dining area, students can chow down at

three campus cafés and the Cellar, and meals get good reviews for freshness and

variety. “We have a strong security team that takes sexual assault very seriously and

has been good at communicating with the campus about situations that have hap-

pened,” comments a junior.

Twenty- five percent of Puget Sound men and 24 percent of the women go Greek,

though fraternities and sororities don’t dominate the social scene and all Greek

parties are alcohol- free. “Social life at UPS is fairly intimate. In my experience, people

tend to hang out more off campus on the weekends, at people’s houses and such,” a

philosophy major says. Popular school- sponsored activities include the Log Jam

BBQ and club fair that kicks off the school year, the Foolish Pleasures festival of

short student- produced films, and the Lumbershoot music festival in the spring (a

play on Seattle’s Bumbershoot). An active Hawaiian student organization sponsors a

luau each spring, with “great food and lots of traditional dances.” The Repertory

Dance Group and Puget Sound Outdoors are among the most popular campus orga-

nizations. A few Tacoma bars and restaurants are within walking distance, and a

junior says the university is working “to give students pipelines to the local

(continued)

Biology

International Political Economy

Neuroscience

Once every two

years, there’s a

nine- month, school-